Mission and learning outcomes

Within the broad context of the Principles and Practices, the residence life program is shaped by a view of residence halls and houses as learning environments. The most important learning that occurs outside the classroom takes place between students (Schroeder and Mable, 1994). The nature of the residential program is interactive and integrated to support strong community development. The priority is on student leadership and involvement. Students living out their daily experience in reflective dialogue with peers will support connections as they learn from one another. Students guiding the nature of the program is at the heart of this learning mission.

Our learning communities are formed around an educational priority. The Office of Residence Life seeks to create a space where students learn about themselves, their peers and their communities while developing a commitment to life-long learning and service.

We have three goals which support this mission and educational priority through the lens of the Social Change Model of Leadership Development.  Each goal is supported by learning outcomes achieved through programs, services and resources. These areas of intentional focus help the Office of Residence Life to further define our larger educational priority.

Students will examine and understand their personal identities and values and act with integrity.

• Students will identify and articulate their beliefs, values, attitudes, emotions, behaviors, perceptual lenses, experiences and the unique aspects of their own social identities.
• Students will demonstrate the ability to self-reflect and be able to articulate the importance of doing so.
• Students will recognize when their decisions and actions are in line with their goals, values and beliefs.
• Students will identify resources and develop techniques to achieve personal wellness and academic success.

Students will recognize the skills necessary to develop and sustain healthy and collaborative interpersonal relationships.

• Students will seek to hear and understand different perspectives.
• Students will learn to recognize, respect and value social identities that exist in our society.
• Students will effectively work toward a common goal, vision and/or purpose within groups of their peers.
• Students will demonstrate effective communication and conflict management skills.

Students will understand the responsibilities, roles and mutual influence of those living in an intentional community.

• Students will identify the behavior expectations and characteristics of a healthy community for themselves and for others.
• Students will respect and recognize different beliefs, values, emotions, behaviors, perceptual lenses and experiences and how they affect the community.
• Students will recognize how their decisions and actions impact themselves and their communities.
• Students will demonstrate a commitment to civic engagement.