Program Objectives and
Student Outcome Criteria

The Program Objectives address the three broad areas of 1) values, 2) knowledge acquisition, synthesis and application, and 3) skill acquisition, competence, and application as applied specifically to the gerontology discipline. These objectives reflect the expectation that students continuously examine and explore their beliefs and values as they progress along their learning continuum. These objectives also delineate that knowledge be derived from multiple sources both academic and experiential. Program Objectives addressing values and knowledge give rise to objectives for skill application.

Skill competence is conceptualized as both general to learning and living in today's world, and specific to interdisciplinary Gerontological practice. These skill competencies embrace five primary areas of transferable skills. These include 1) critical thinking (logic and problem solving), 2) effective written and oral interpersonal communication, 3) creative thinking, 4) moral/ethical reasoning, and 5) information literacy. Gerontology students are expected to progressively apply and build on these learned general skills in their coursework as well as in their interactions with and management of individuals in their field practice in gerontology.

Students are expected to achieve the following Program Objectives by building on their prior academic and experiential knowledge while completing their course of study in the Gerontology Major. It is anticipated that most of the interdisciplinary courses will provide unique opportunities for students to learn and practice general and specific skills leading to achievement of the Program Objectives, however, not all courses will address each of the Outcome Criteria. The final measurement of Outcome Criteria will be done at the completion of the Program through the identified measurements. These outcomes are:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the discipline of gerontology and its role in society.
2. Apply current theory and research in gerontology.
3. Use knowledge of reciprocal relationships among older adults, their families and society.
4. Use knowledge of the diversity of older adults in the American society.
5. Demonstrate socially-conscious behavior regarding the older population.
6. Acquire knowledge necessary for competent interdisciplinary gerontological practice.
7. Demonstrate critical thinking as a foundation for decision making.
8. Exhibit effective written, oral and interpersonal communication skills with individuals, caregivers, families, and staff.
9. Exhibit effective use of various sources of information needed for functioning in a global, information society.