Outcomes & Continuous Improvement

Program Learning Outcomes 

1. Identify major historical periods, ideas, issues, people and/or events in multiple civilizations or cultures, such as North America, Latin America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, or Asia. Demonstrate awareness of diversity within those cultures studied. 

2. Demonstrate historical understanding by constructing interpretations of the past, identifying causal factors, tracing change and continuity, explaining historical development in context, and making meaningful connections between past and present. 

3. Craft and defend coherent and persuasive arguments orally and in writing; write clearly and effectively in a variety of genres, consistently formatting written communication in the predominant style of the discipline (Chicago Manual of Style). 

4. Locate, evaluate and interpret historical primary and secondary sources (information literacy). Conduct research ethically and effectively. Interpret sources accurately and empathetically. Craft arguments courageously and fairly. 

5. Articulate moral, religious, and/or ethical implications of ideas and actions of the past. Demonstrate the relevance of history to moral, religious, and/or ethical issues of today. 

Quality Assurance: Each degree program should be able to clearly articulate what its purpose is in terms of content, educational objectives, and standards of performance (CFR 2.1). Entry requirements and requirements for graduation are communicated and appropriately aligned with the degree level (CFR 2.1). Similarly, learning outcomes that are relevant to program content and development of professional competencies are clearly defined and visible to the public (CFR 2.2, 2.3).  These learning outcomes serve not only as a foundation in the degree program's operations but also as a framework for student advisement and student success  (CFR 2.2, 2.3). Faculty have a responsibility for not only establishing learning outcomes but also assessing these outcomes against established standards of student performance (CFR 2.7).   - WSCUC 2023 Handbook, Standard 2