Principle 3 | Definition |
3. Critical Thinking, Integration, and Application of Knowledge | Logical analysis and synthesis of information and ideas from multiple perspectives; critical acquisition, integration, and application of knowledge in students’ intellectual, personal, professional, and community lives. |
Requirement Adopted 01/18/2008
Mandatory capstone course in the major or equivalent experience as determined by the unit.
Learning Outcomes - Adopted 03/21/2008
IU Northwest graduates will:
- raise vital questions and problems, formulating them clearly and precisely
- gather and assess relevant information, using abstract ideas to interpret it effectively
- come to well-reasoned conclusions and solutions, testing them against relevant criteria and standards
- think open-mindedly about alternative systems of thought or beliefs, recognizing and assessing, as need be, their assumptions, implications, and practical consequences; and
- communicate effectively with others in figuring out solutions to complex problems
IU Northwest students should be able to apply these skills within their disciplines.
Units must specify how their students will meet the outcomes for principle 3. Each unit will provide evidence that students have met the appropriate outcomes. Units are responsible for creating or designating the necessary courses and/or enriching experiences that fulfill the requirement and for assessing the outcomes.
Guidelines: Outcomes for principle 3 will be met by a class or by an enriching educational experience such as service learning, an internship, a capstone project, student teaching, an independent study research/creative activity, study abroad, a show, or a performance.