Terra State Community College is committed to providing a quality teaching and learning environment for students—one that prepares them for future careers, continuing education, lifelong learning, and productive membership in the communities in which they live.

This commitment to excellent teaching and effective learning is reflected in the College’s assessment of student learning, which is supported by the faculty, administration, and staff.

As part of the continuous quality improvement process at the College, faculty assess student learning related to general learning and program-specific learning outcomes. Program learning outcomes represent the program-specific knowledge, skills, and competencies each applied-degree graduate should possess.

General learning outcomes reflect the knowledge, perspective, and skills which are a part of the educational experience of all students. These outcomes are measured throughout the General Education curriculum and reflect a student’s ability to:

  1. Communicate effectively in writing and/or speaking.
  2. Evaluate arguments according to the principals of logic.
  3. Demonstrate an understanding of cultural differences and ability to work effectively in a culturally diverse, global society.
  4. Employ the methods of inquiry and research commonly used in the natural sciences, social sciences, mathematics, and the arts and humanities.
  5. Engage in our democratic society.
  6. Demonstrate literacy in electronic environments, which may include hardware, applications, and/or media.

Assessment results reflect what is being taught and learned in the classroom, and are used to identify needed improvements in the academic programs. The assessment process is an important part of the college’s efforts to prepare graduates to enter the workplace or to continue their education.