Communicate facts and ideas.

To demonstrate competence in communication, students will appraise the needs of their audience; use sound evidence and reasoning in constructing arguments; and clearly and effectively communicate.

Understand and apply the principles of diversity, inclusion, and equity.

To demonstrate competence in inclusion, students will show cultural understanding; recognize issues of diversity, inclusion, and equity; and understand the importance of creating diverse and inclusive environments for all.

Analyze ideas, information, and problems.

To demonstrate competence in critical thinking, students will question assumptions; evaluate ideas and problems in a systematic way; and appraise arguments for importance, logic, relevance, and strength.

Collect, evaluate, organize, and use information.

To demonstrate competence in information literacy, students will find appropriate information to address a need; evaluate it for relevance and validity; and use it to draw conclusions and generate solutions.

Use digital technologies.

To demonstrate competence in digital literacy, students will leverage digital technologies to accomplish goals; engage effectively and ethically in a digital environment; and adapt to new and emerging technologies.

Communicate facts and ideas.

To demonstrate competence in quantitative literacy, students will solve problems using basic calculations; make judgements about and draw conclusions from quantitative evidence; and use quantitative strategies to support a position.

Recognize and consider the ethical dimension of behavior.

To demonstrate competence in ethical reasoning, students will apply ethical principles and approaches; consider alternative courses of action and consequences; and evaluate and articulate their own ethical values.

Understand scientific concepts and methods.

To demonstrate competence in scientific literacy, students will have a basic understanding of major scientific concepts and methods; apply scientific knowledge to daily life; and express scientifically informed positions.

Definition: Communication refers to the ability to effectively convey and interpret information through a variety of formats, including written, oral, and non-verbal methods, tailored to different audiences and contexts. It involves active listening, clear expression of ideas, and the ability to engage in productive dialogue, while acknowledging different perspectives and cultures.

Skills and Knowledge:

•  Written Communication: Demonstrate the ability to write clearly and persuasively for different audiences and purposes, using appropriate formats, styles, and conventions.
•  Oral Communication: Effectively present ideas and information orally in discussions, presentations, and debates, utilizing appropriate language, structure, and delivery techniques.
•  Interpersonal and Group Communication: Engage in active listening and thoughtful exchange of ideas, respecting diverse perspectives and responding appropriately in group and one-on-one interactions.
•  Non-verbal Communication: Interpret and use non-verbal cues (e.g., body language, facial expressions) to enhance understanding and strengthen communication in various settings.
•  Multimodal Communication: Employ digital tools and other media effectively to create and communicate messages that suit the needs of a given audience, employing visuals, text, and other formats.

Definition: Critical thinking integrates problem-solving strategies to draw conclusions supported by evidence. Critical thinking is the active and skillful process of analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing information from various sources to make reasoned, logical judgments and decisions. It involves questioning assumptions, identifying biases, and considering multiple perspectives, particularly in complex, ambiguous, or unfamiliar situations.

Skills and Knowledge:

•  Critical Analysis: Demonstrate the ability to break down complex concepts or arguments into their component parts, evaluate their validity, and assess the reasoning behind them.
•  Ethical Reasoning: Apply principles of ethics to analyze situations, identify moral dilemmas, and make reasoned decisions that consider fairness and consequences.
•  Problem Solving: Apply critical thinking to identify problems, evaluate possible solutions, and use evidence-based approaches to reach effective conclusions.
•  Logical Thinking: Utilize deductive and inductive reasoning to form logical arguments, identify fallacies, and construct coherent, evidence-based conclusions.
•  Information and Digital Literacy: Locate, evaluate, and use information from various sources effectively, and assess its credibility, biases, and ethical implications.

Definition: Quantitative and scientific reasoning involves applying mathematical, statistical, and scientific methods to design investigations, analyze data, assess trends and uncertainties to make informed interpretations. It emphasizes the ability to interpret empirical evidence both quantitatively and qualitatively and to assess the quality and limitations of different scientific approaches based upon the design of experiments, models, and the scope of the data included in the analyses.

Skills and Knowledge:

•  Quantitative Reasoning: Understanding mathematical, statistical, or computational techniques to analyze data, assess trends, and make data-driven decisions while recognizing the limitations of quantitative methods.
•  Scientific Reasoning: Apply scientific approaches to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, and/or draw conclusions that are grounded in logical interpretation of the results or prior scientific studies.

Definition: Civic and global engagement involves understanding local, national, and global communities. It emphasizes fostering understanding, ethical reasoning, and a sense of responsibility to address pressing societal issues.

Skills and Knowledge:

•  Civic Engagement: Explore community and national matters through informed decision-making, advocating for the common good, and contributing to the development of policies that address societal challenges.
•  Global Awareness: Understand and engage with different perspectives, with a recognition for the interconnectedness of global issues and respect for others.
•  Engagement: Become informed, open-minded, and responsible individuals who work independently and collaboratively to understand and address critical issues.