Learning Outcomes for Psychology Majors

Outcomes

Theory and Content of Psychology

Demonstrate familiarity with major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends.

Research Methods in Psychology

Understand and apply basic research methods, including research design, data analysis, and interpretation.

Critical Thinking Skills in Psychology

Respect and use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and the scientific approach.

Application of Psychology

Understand and apply psychological principles to personal, social, and organizational issues.

Values in Psychology

Weigh evidence, tolerate ambiguity, act ethically, and reflect other values underpinning psychology.

Information and Technological Literacy

Demonstrate information competence and the ability to use computers and other technology for many purposes.

Communication Skills

Communicate effectively in both oral and written formats.

Sociocultural and International Awareness

Recognize, understand, and respect the complexity of sociocultural and international diversity.

Personal Development

Show insight into one’s own and others’ behavior and mental processes and apply effective strategies for self-management and self-improvement.

Career Planning and Development

Emerge from the major with realistic ideas about how to use psychological knowledge, skills, and values in various occupations and in graduate or professional school.

In the latest assessment of the Department of Psychological Science’s undergraduate student learning outcomes, three outcomes (Critical Thinking Skills in Psychology, Research Methods in Psychology, and Communication Skills) were evaluated. The assessment was conducted through faculty evaluations of term papers from nine advanced undergraduate courses. The results of the assessment showed that a large majority (85% to 91%, depending on the specific outcome) of undergraduate majors were achieving at or above the expectations of the department. No undergraduate majors were achieving at an unacceptable level on any of the outcomes. Plans were established to enhance achievement in the coming years, and to expand the assessment to include additional SLOs.