# data[].attributes.headline
Course Learning Outcomes Reflection- Brian Holmes

# data[].attributes.subject
Course Learning Outcomes Reflection- Brian Holmes

# data[].attributes.body
I am very pleased and grateful to have taken and experienced this course. This class was a unique experience for me because the bulk of what I took away and gained from it was not new material. The best lesson I took away is how much I actually already learned in my schooling career and how important that information is. Not only that but also how to use that information and I think that is the biggest thing I took from this class. I have improved tremendously on the fact that it is essential to take every last class serious because they are all offering something essential even though it may not always feel that way. I learned to always make an effort to squeeze the most you can get out of everything in life not just classes and school related. Although I learned this and just got introduced to it, I definitely still need to keep working on it. This is a skill I need to keep around for the rest of my life and try to master, because lessons like these can improve every aspect of my life. I will now list each learning outcome and reflect on them.

-articulate the value of and the personal reasons for earning a degree at a liberal arts and sciences institution, particularly to potential employers;

Like I just talked about, I learned not only content but also how important the rest of my schooling was leading up to this point and how each class has something to offer that I will need in the future.

-apply General Education learning outcomes and skills to real-world personal and professional situations and simulations;

I learned that each skill and lesson from Gen Ed classes is commonly found in everyday life and most jobs after college. I went from thinking most of them were pointless and just filler classes to realized how much I actually have in my toolbox.

-demonstrate how General Education learning outcomes and skills can be integrated together, utilizing multiple areas of knowledge and multiple modes of inquiry and benefiting from multiple perspectives;

I learned how transferrable the skills were because you need them for everything. Speaking, writing, communicating are all essential to any line of work if you want to be successful and gen ed classes gave me them.

-assess intellectual progress through reflections on and revisions of previous work within a portfolio;

develop their insights effectively through written and oral communication;

For the videos actually talking out loud really helped me hear and absorb the information on the slides rather than just mindlessly typing them. There is power in talking out loud and I think it has a lot of benefits.

-apply information literacy skills and the steps of the research process in creative and/or independent ways.

I really focused in on my communication from lessons I gained in this course. Mainly at my job with my bosses and coworkers. Communication can always improve and getting better at it has helped me in my life in many ways.

# data[].attributes.body
Now that I reflect upon my progress in this course, I did not realize that I had grown so much in my knowledge of General Education, and my journey to understanding the curriculum and why it is necessary for my Business degree. Now I see that this course has greatly improved my perspective on my skillset as a person who desires to be in management, and that technical skills are not everything. Therefore, I feel I am much more well-equipped to apply my skills learned through General Education to give my best foot forward not only in my career, but my personal life as well, such as around my family. I also feel that I am better equipped to assess my intellectual growth through my previous works and typing everything together in a coherent fashion. I used to not be able to do this as well, having inconsistencies with my work. Even with all of this progress, I still have a lot more to learn, which promotes my desire for life-long learning!

What I really need to improve on is seeing through a multitude of perspectives. I have some with my United States History course and Civic Learning as a whole, however, I feel it could be stronger. I will be taking a course that dives into Diverse Perspectives hopefully in the fall, which I anticipate will reinforce my developing knowledge in multiple perspectives. On top of this, I feel my written and oral communication skills could be a little better as well, and hope to continuously improve this with my subsequent courses and other endeavors in my schooling. In a cumulative sense though, I have improved in all aspects, just some more than others. I am quite anxious but also excited about what will come next for me in my education.

# data[].attributes.body
The learning outcome that I received most from this class was a stronger understanding of applying General Education learning outcomes and skills to real-world personal and professional situations and simulations. In the reflection papers and annotated pieces I wrote for this class, I was able to connect general education learning outcomes with real-life personal and professional experiences. The solidified my belief in the importance of these classes being an integral part of the higher education experience. I am a CTE teacher, who is focus on teaching my trade of culinary arts, but we need these other courses to be the best professional we can be. A person may be an extremely talented chef, but without the interpersonal and communication skills (that can be developed through a General Education background), it would be harder to succeed in the hospitality industry. Culinary/Hospitality professionals must work with teams, communicate with customers, solve problems, and understand people from different backgrounds in order to excel. Humanities courses help people understand different cultures, perspectives, which is especially important in a field centered around food, service, and hospitality. General Education creates more well-rounded individuals who can connect with others, adapt to challenges, lead teams, and communicate effectively in both professional and personal settings. This class helped me connect those ideas and articulate the importance of General Education overall.

# data[].attributes.body
This course has taught how to connect the general education courses I've taken and apply them to real life, my professional life and my personal life. I learned that the skills I've strengthened through the courses I've taken such as communication, critical thinking and problem solving and I want to continue on strengthening these skills specifically managing conflicting and improving my leadership skills. I also learned how important written and oral communication action is in school and professional settings. I was able to improve my writing and expressing my ideas more clearly. I would like to improve my public speaking skills and gain more confidence when speaking to others. Information literacy taught me the importance of evaluating your sources and helped developed efficient research skills. I would like to continue on being more confident in my academic research. Overall, I was able to make strong connections between general education courses and how it contributes to my personal and professional life.

# data[].attributes.body
Skills like critical thinking, problem solving, and communication have been strengthened through many general education courses I've taken throughout my college career. I was able to strengthen my critical thinking and problem solving skills through courses like Statistics and Psychology. These courses taught me how to analyze logically and developed stronger problem solving skills. Courses like English & Composition, and Public Speaking improved my ability to express myself and enhance my communication skills. Courses such as Sociology and World History helped me better understand society, cultures and the world from a different perspective. These courses also encouraged awareness and empathy in society. Overall, these courses helped me strengthen the skills needed to "human effectively"

# data[].attributes.body
One issue I feel strongly about is mental health. When mental health is at its worst, it can have a negative impact on work, relationships and one's overall quality of life. There are many people who do not even have access to mental health treatment, which is an issue that needs to change. What is needed to create that change is mental health education, access to therapy and treatment, and public awareness about mental health. There are several learning outcomes that can be studied or practiced that can help address this issue.

1. Speaking & Listening - when people are open to having honest conversations about mental health issues, it can help spread awareness and lead to help fixing these issues.

2. Reading & Writing - spreading awareness can lead to inspiring people to make changes. Reading and writing skills can help people conduct research on mental health.

3. Ethical Reasoning - is needed to help society realize that people that are struggling with mental health need compassion and not be judged

4. Information Literacy - Proper research done on mental health can help it help normalize these issues which can aid in societies ability to recognize mental health issues and avoid misinformation and stigmas.

5. Personal Wellness- when people are able to make comparisons to their own personal wellness, it can help them recognize problems that can lead to a decline on mental health such as stress and anxiety.

If we are able to improve research, education and awareness around mental health, it c an help create more positive stigmas and overall access to help people with mental health issues.

# data[].attributes.body
I saw General Education as a means to an end before this semester, a collection of required classes to complete before I could focus on my major. By the end of the semester, I had gained an appreciation for the connections between the different General Education classes that are offered and how they will relate to life after college. The learning outcomes of a liberal arts and sciences general education helps achieve a wide array of skills that are universally applicable in real-world, professional, and personal situations. I took a variety of General Education classes within the areas of writing, math and science: statistics, world history, and visual and performing arts. These classes challenged me in my ability to analyze information, think critically, solve problems, evaluate evidence and express ideas and findings clearly and concisely. In looking more in depth at the learning outcomes for General Education, I can see that they are intended to be integrated across disciplines rather than separate outcomes.

Most importantly, I got to see where I lack in information literacy and writing capibility, and how I can improve on those areas going forward. Recognizing where I went wrong in the past in these aspects gave me the tools to look at sources for reliability, potential bias, and organize ideas and present them effectively in writing. Through examining my portfolios through the semesters, I can tell that my writing and analysis skills did improve and allowed me to evolve as a writer and critical thinker as I worked through the lessons of the course and provided feedback through revisions and self-assessment. I plan on continuing to work on my writing, especially putting my ideas across more clearly and concisely through written word, and in addition work on oral communication. I plan on working on my ability to think more convergently as well as divergently, and I also hope to improve in acknowledging and working with perspectives that go against my way of thinking. The General Education requirements have been perceived by some students as pointless and are seen as taking away from the major/minor requirements that are seen as more relevant and important to future goals after graduating university. However, through this course, I gained a new appreciation for these requirements because they have provided me the opportunity to not only learn about my chosen field of business, but also give me insight on other valuable skills that are crucial to be successful long after graduation.

# data[].attributes.body
Looking back on this course, I think one of the biggest things I have learned is how to better connect everything I have done throughout my college experience into real-world application. Before this class, I honestly looked at a lot of general education courses as separate boxes that needed to be checked. But now I see how communication, research, critical thinking, ethics, and problem solving all work together in both my professional and personal life. Working in logistics and supply chain management, especially in military and government environments, I deal with situations every day that require me to think critically, communicate clearly, and look at problems from multiple perspectives. This course helped me realize that a liberal arts education is not just about learning random subjects. It is about developing skills that transfer into leadership, decision making, and adaptability.

One area where I feel like I improved a lot is written communication. Throughout this semester, I had to reflect more deeply on my own experiences and explain my thoughts in a way that actually connects ideas together instead of just answering questions one by one. I also think I improved my ability to revise my work and accept feedback without taking it personally. Earlier in my academic career, I would usually write a paper, submit it, and move on. But during this course, I spent more time revisiting assignments, making corrections, and improving the overall flow and structure. That process made me more confident in my writing moving forward, especially as I prepare for graduate-level work in my MBA program.

I also learned a lot about integrating multiple perspectives and areas of knowledge together. In both my military career and civilian work, I have seen firsthand how important it is to understand that there is rarely just one correct answer to a problem. This course reinforced that idea by making me reflect on how different subjects and experiences connect together. For example, communication skills, ethical reasoning, research, and leadership all overlap in the workplace. I think I have become better at looking at situations more holistically instead of focusing only on one narrow aspect.

One thing I still want to continue working on is balancing structure with flow in my writing. I have improved a lot this semester, but I still sometimes struggle with knowing when to organize papers with separate headings versus allowing everything to flow together naturally. I also want to continue improving my research skills and confidence with scholarly sources because I know that will become even more important in graduate school. At the same time, I want to keep developing my ability to communicate professionally while still sounding authentic and natural.

Overall, this course gave me a chance to step back and really reflect on how far I have come, not just academically but professionally and personally as well. Balancing work, military responsibilities, family life, and school has not always been easy, especially during such a heavy semester, but this course helped remind me that growth happens over time. Looking back now, I can honestly say I have gained more confidence in my abilities as both a student and a professional.

# data[].attributes.body
Over the course of this semester, I’ve realized that I’ve grown in more ways than I initially noticed. Looking at the learning outcomes for this course and the general education program, I can see clear progress in how I think, communicate, and apply what I’ve learned.

One of the biggest areas of growth for me has been critical and creative thinking. At the beginning of the semester, I often accepted information at face value. Now, I find myself questioning ideas more, looking at different perspectives, and forming more thoughtful conclusions. This aligns with the goal of exploring ideas deeply before forming opinions and being open to changing them when presented with new evidence .

I have also improved in writing and communication. Through assignments and discussions, I’ve learned how to express my ideas more clearly and support them with evidence. I feel more confident organizing my thoughts and communicating them in a way that others can understand. This is important because the program emphasizes clearly articulating ideas for different audiences and purposes .

Another area I’ve developed is information literacy. I’ve become better at finding reliable sources and evaluating whether the information is credible and useful. Instead of just picking the first source I see, I now think more carefully about where the information comes from and how it supports my work.

In terms of integrative learning, I’ve started to see how different subjects connect to each other and to real life. Rather than viewing each class separately, I can now combine ideas from different courses and experiences. This has helped me understand the bigger picture and see how what I’m learning applies outside the classroom .

I’ve also grown in my awareness of diverse perspectives and civic learning. Through discussions and coursework, I’ve been exposed to viewpoints different from my own, which has helped me become more open-minded and understanding of others. I’ve learned that being an informed and responsible member of society requires listening to and respecting different perspectives.

Even with this progress, there are still areas I want to continue working on. I would like to improve my confidence in speaking and participating in discussions, especially sharing my ideas in real time. I also want to continue strengthening my time management and organization skills, as balancing multiple responsibilities can still be challenging.

Overall, this semester has helped me grow not just academically, but personally. It has shown me that learning is not just about completing assignments, but about developing skills that will help me think, communicate, and engage with the world more effectively.

# data[].attributes.body
I wish I saw the library tutorials at the start of my college journey with Fitchburg State. The last time I utilized a college library was when I was at NECC finishing my associates degree. It was a nerve-racking experience as I felt there was minimal support.

I feel more comfortable with Fitchburg States library - I liked how easy it is to search in the library. Furthermore, the organization is super effective in locating information, topics being broken up into applied sections makes it a lot easier to find.

One point of continued confusion -

Viewing texts that are supported online doesn't seem to be working and my login that I use for blackboard doesn't work on the system. There is also very little tech support on the website.

Also a question - To use the library on campus is it required to have your student ID on you?

# data[].attributes.headline
Course Learning Outcomes Reflection-  Nikolas Kedian

# data[].attributes.subject
Course Learning Outcomes Reflection-  Nikolas Kedian

# data[].attributes.body
Looking back at the last four months in this course I believe I have further developed in my understanding liberal arts and general education. When I registered for this class I was really unsure of what all of the jargon meant and got immensely overwhelmed. In my professional career all of my learning was direct and hands on and I had a difficulty slowing down and truly understand something. This course assisted in my level of confidence in not knowing, and to turn on the creative piece of my brain. Furthermore, I see the connection between my studies and my professional life as a teacher and restaurant manager.

I feel I have improved in my level of self-awareness of learning outcomes. In addition I feel it has assisted in the bridge between learning and applying. In my teaching career I felt I always struggled on the understanding and writing of learning objectives for my own lessons. I now have a better understanding of how to compose them, and have structured in some flexibility and creativity.

When I think of something that I can continue to work on is to not overthink assignments/objectives. I am a tangible focused hands on learner, when assignments are solely online I find myself getting super anxious over the learning requirements and derail the train before it even leaves the station.

Learning Objective 1:

Having a degree can be an instrumental part of success in both a professional and personal career. It further builds a repertoire of understanding that you can carry with you throughout your career. While some believe that it is "just a piece of paper" it is far more than that. I myself have been working toward my bachelors degree for almost ten years, and it all will pay off in the long run.

Learning Objective 2:

I have a better understanding of learning objectives as a whole. It was difficult at the start of this course to accurately interpret and analyze how to apply it in real world scenarios. It was an adjustment getting used to the difference of assignments, but, I feel I have a better gauge on it now.

Learning Objective 3:

After this course I see how courses intertwine with one another. I understand better the prerequisite process of course selection. You need prior knowledge for some classes before you step into a level 2 class. For example if you have never taken English Comp 1 you cannot take English Comp 2 until the completion as you need the prior knowledge.

Learning Objective 4:

I am still developing in my own reflective practice. Occasionally I find it difficult to have a true reflection as I read each thing 20 times before I feel it is good enough. With this course I have a more sound approach to submitting coursework.

Learning Objective 5:

Written communication is an area in which I have a sound understanding. In my career as a restaurant manager/event sales director fluency in communication is a requirement. Whether it be leading a pre shift, or responding to a customers email, responses need to be concise and accurate. In this course I have been able to think of things with a more creative lens and practice a more liberal approach. I also have noticed an increase in my ability to effectively communicate proper steps.

Learning Objective 6:

I am still developing in my ability to apply information literacy skills and the steps of research process in creative or independent ways. In my career everything tends to be black and white, where his course has leaned on the creative and choose your path approach. It has been refreshing to have the choice, and will continue to improve with time.

# data[].attributes.headline
Why Do I have to take this course? Activity 7.1 - Nikolas Kediain

# data[].attributes.subject
Why Do I have to take this course? Activity 7.1 - Nikolas Kediain

# data[].attributes.body
Throughout my college journey there have been quite a few general education courses that I have taken that better broadened my repertoire of what it means to be a human. In my initial list of what it takes to human effectively I had; Growth mindset, compassion, empathy, critical thinking, communication, confidence, and general physical needs(food, water, shelter).

Growth Mindset - Growth mindset is something that is of high importance in the OCED courses. Almost every class I have completed has a high emphasis on looking at the world like a glass half full. In my teaching career I urge to have the "I can, just not yet" mentality - while they may not be able to do something to perfection now, they CAN learn how to do it.

Compassion - In my english comp 1/2 courses I learned the importance of compassion. It costs you nothing to be kind and treat people the way you would like to be treated. In English Comp 1/2 I read a variety of stories and had to understand the plot, climax, etc. With each piece of literature you have to have a level of compassion and caring. The best book I read in the class was a collection of short stories and in each one we had to decipher the climax and plot paired with understanding of what the characters were going through.

Empathy - Empathy is a crucial skill in my career and is paired with communication skills. In my Intro to Hospitality course the first thing covered is the Marriott LEARN model which is their guest recovery process that all employees use. LEARN is an acronym for Listen, Empathize, Apologize, React, and Notify. I better developed this skill in this course as I had to put myself in the customers shoes and level with them. I better understood the process of communicating effectively and still improve with time.

Critical Thinking - In the food service industry critical thinking is one of the required components. It is how you think quickly, rapid problem solving, and has a focus on flexibility. In my Hospitality Law course there was a high focus on legalities and how we problem solve. One of the assignments had to do with how you would have handled a potential issue that would have resulted in the business being sued - and I had to write out three different scenarios and approaches. I also believe that my English Comp 2 course assisted in my ability to think critically.

Communication - An essential skill that I have continued to develop with each course that I have completed. The course I learned to best verbally communicate in was Public Speaking. When you have to read, write, and speak as part of an assignment you better learn to communicate. In public speaking I learned that part of communicating is understanding the other perspectives in the room and reading body language so you have a gauge of the level or perception.

Confidence - I feel every course I have taken has improved my level of confidence across my life. With each course taken I feel I have a better understanding of the processes of life. Each time I learn something and can apply it tangibly I feel more confident. Furthermore, each person has confidence in something, but they need to have confidence in themselves.

General Physical Needs - Food, water, shelter, clothing.

I haven't completed a course on this. These were just tangible necessities a person needs to survive.

I see how and where I better developed as a human being and the impact that some of my general education courses had on my career.

Below I have highlighted two courses that have a great emphasis on how to human effectively.

The most impactful course completed would be my Public Speaking/Communication course. In this class I better developed my ability to speak and lead with confidence. It encompassed one of my favorite assignments was to write and present a persuasive speech to the class. I did it on why the world should quit smoking. With this I feel I better learned how my words impact others and speak/lead with empathy and compassion. I credit this course immensely in my teaching strategies as it had a heightened impact on growth mindset.

Secondly my English Composition 2 course had a huge impact on my disposition to further understanding the plot and having a higher emphasis on ethical reasoning. I also better developed my abilities in critical thinking, communication, confidence, and growth mindset.

# data[].attributes.body
Honestly, looking back at the learning outcomes for this course, I didn’t realize how much I had actually improved until now. It’s one of those classes that feels simple while you’re doing it, but when you stop and reflect, you can see how much it all connects.

One of the biggest things I’ve learned is how to articulate the value of my degree, not just to myself but to other people. Before this class, I would have probably just said I was getting a business degree in accounting and left it at that. Now I can actually explain why I’m doing it and how the skills I’m learning apply to real life and future jobs. That feels a lot more meaningful and honestly makes me feel more confident about what I’m working toward.

I’ve also improved a lot in connecting different learning outcomes together. At first, everything felt separate, writing was just writing, analytics was just numbers, and discussions were just something to complete. Now I see how they overlap. For example, even in something like an analytics assignment, I still have to think critically and explain what the data means, which connects back to writing and communication. The same goes for discussions, those involve writing, perspective-taking, and sometimes even logical thinking. I didn’t really see those connections before.

Another area I’ve improved in is reflection. I’m not someone who naturally sits and thinks about what I’ve learned. I usually just move on to the next thing because my life is busy with work, school, and kids. But this class forced me to slow down and actually look at my own progress. I’ve started to notice patterns in how I learn, where I struggle, and what I’m getting better at. That’s something I want to keep working on because I can see how valuable it is.

I think I’ve also grown in communication, especially written communication. I used to overthink my writing and try to make it sound overly formal, which didn’t really sound like me. Now I’m getting better at writing in a way that is clear, natural, and still appropriate for school. That’s been a big shift for me, and it’s something I know will help me in future classes and eventually in my career.

If there’s one area I want to continue working on, it’s definitely confidence in unfamiliar types of work, like analytics and more technical assignments. I can do them, but they don’t come as naturally to me as writing does. I still second-guess myself a lot in those situations. I think with more practice, I’ll get more comfortable and trust my process more.

Overall, this class helped me see that learning outcomes aren’t just random categories, they actually reflect real skills that connect to each other and to real life. It also helped me recognize that even though I’m busy and sometimes just trying to get through assignments, I am improving and building skills that matter.

# data[].attributes.body
Going back to my "How to Human (Effectively!) 101" list and rebuilding it through the lens of gen ed courses showed me how much of being a functional adult I picked up without realizing it. Writing taught me to organize my thinking, Speech sharpened how I present ideas, Ethical Reasoning forced me to weigh decisions instead of react, and Quantitative Reasoning gave me confidence with numbers. Those same skills carry straight into my accounting courses. Financial Reporting (BSAD 3010/3020) leans on careful writing and quantitative reasoning, Auditing (BSAD 4140) is built on ethical judgment, and Business Policy (BSAD 4890) requires the communication and integration that gen ed has quietly trained.

# data[].attributes.body
During this course, the Padlet activities really changed how I see general education. Reflecting on Fitchburg State's mission and reading "Why We Study the Liberal Arts" helped me put into words why this degree is worth more than just a credential. The "How to Human (Effectively!)" exercises and the "Good Trouble" discussion got me thinking about how skills like ethical reasoning, writing, and information literacy show up in everyday life, not just in class. That ties back to the course outcomes about applying gen ed to real situations and integrating different ways of knowing. As an accounting major, I see those skills carry straight into Auditing, Financial Reporting, and the Business Policy capstone where research, ethics, and clear communication matter most.

# data[].attributes.headline
Mark Albores:Course learning outcomes reflection

# data[].attributes.subject
Mark Albores:Course learning outcomes reflection

# data[].attributes.body
Looking back on this semester, I can really see how much I’ve developed, both academically and personally. One of the biggest improvements I’ve noticed is in how I think more critically and connect ideas across different subjects instead of treating each class as separate. This has made it easier for me to understand real-life situations, especially when it comes to teamwork, leadership, and solving problems.

I’ve also grown more confident in how I communicate, both in writing and during discussions. On top of that, I’ve improved my ability to research and analyze information in a more effective way. These are skills that go beyond the classroom and will definitely be useful in any career path.

Earning a degree in a liberal arts and sciences program has real value because it shows that I can adapt, think from different perspectives, and tackle challenges not just complete assignments. Moving forward, I want to keep developing my communication skills and continue improving how I connect ideas across different areas of learning.

# data[].attributes.body
## Issue: Access to Quality Education (Education Inequality)

One issue I feel strongly about is the lack of equal access to quality education. Around the world, many people are unable to receive a good education because of factors such as poverty, location, lack of resources, or poor school systems. This inequality limits opportunities for individuals and keeps many people in cycles of disadvantage. In my lifetime, I would like to see a world where everyone, regardless of background, has access to quality education.

To create this change, several things are needed. First, there must be increased awareness of the problem so that governments and communities understand its importance. Second, resources such as trained teachers, technology, and proper learning facilities must be made available to underserved areas. Third, policies must be put in place to ensure that education is accessible and affordable for all. Finally, individuals and organizations must take action by supporting educational programs and initiatives.

Several general education learning outcomes can help address this issue:

Critical Thinking: This skill helps individuals analyze the causes of education inequality and evaluate possible solutions. By understanding the root problems, better decisions can be made to improve access to education.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for raising awareness about education inequality. It allows people to share ideas, advocate for change, and influence others to support educational improvements.

Ethical Reasoning: This outcome helps individuals understand the moral importance of equal access to education. It encourages fairness and responsibility in creating opportunities for all people.

Creative Thinking: Creative thinking is important for developing innovative solutions, such as online learning platforms or community-based education programs, especially in areas with limited resources.

Civic Engagement: This involves participating in efforts to improve society, such as supporting policies, volunteering, or advocating for educational reform. Civic engagement helps turn ideas into real change.

In conclusion, improving access to quality education is essential for creating a more equal and just society. By developing key skills and taking action, individuals can contribute to meaningful change and help ensure that education becomes a right enjoyed by everyone.

# data[].attributes.headline
Keith Powers: Learning outcomes from course

# data[].attributes.subject
Keith Powers: Learning outcomes from course

# data[].attributes.body
Reflecting on this semester, I can see how much I've grown both academically and personally. I would say I have improved my ability to think critically and apply what I've learned across different subjects, rather than viewing each class separately. This has helped me better understand real-world situations, especially in areas like teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. I've also become more confident in my communication skills through writing and discussions, and I have strengthened my ability to research and evaluate information effectively. These skills are important not just in school but also in any professional setting. Earning a degree from a liberal arts and sciences institution has strong value because it shows employers that I can adapt, think from multiple perspectives, and solve problems, not just complete tasks. Moving forward, I want to continue building my communication skills and keep improving how I connect ideas across different areas. Overall, this semester has shown me how much I've grown and prepared me for future challenges.

# data[].attributes.body
1. After taking the bulk of my liberal arts classes prior to taking this class I already had a pretty good feel for the importance of liberal arts studies. This class quantified these ideas in a concise manner. I feel that I have a better understanding of why these courses are important for the professional world.

2. This class has done an excellent job demonstrating how skills taught in liberal arts classes apply in the real world.

3. My understanding of how liberal arts classes and more specific classes work hand in hand, both imparting skills that make it easier to use the other.

4. Looking back at my previous coursework did give me a better understanding of how I use the knowledge and skills I developed in previous classes every day in real world scenarios.

5. All the writing in this class has most certainly improved my writing ability.

6. my ability to find and retain relevant knowledge from credible sources has improved significantly during this course.

# data[].attributes.body
Writing/Speaking classes- These classes for me were extremely essential to who I am today. It goes without saying that in order to human effectively you must first know how to speak, but also how to communicate with others. Words are very powerful and can be used for great things, but they can also break things like other people or relationships or even opportunities. These classes gave me the essential skills I need in order to grow and do bigger and better things.

Ethical thinking- These classes challenged me to think deeper about everyday topics. Things like happiness and joy. You hear these words everyday but don't actually know what their deep meaning is. Being challenged is so important in order to grow and these classes helped me with that. A person will never grow if they are constantly in a state of comfort and safety. You must step out of that zone and be uncomfortable in order to grow.

Wellness/Fitness- Through my years of school I have always played sports and been active. But as of recently (the past few years) I have grown an obsession for wellness and maximizing the body's potential. These classes introduced me a whole new world of ideas and thinking and it has taught me so much. In order to human effectively we must take what we have learned, find what we are passionate about, and seek joy from that.

# data[].attributes.body
Communication & Expression (English, Writing, Speech)

Classes like English 1 & English 2 helped me use my comprehension skills and being able to showcase I am understanding what is being read. I believe comprehension is a big part of the course. But there’s different skills that are added such as being able to express what you think clearly, and giving sourceful reasoning to my answers as well. Courses like writing and speech also help with those skills but writing does a good job of adding those aspects within the classes.

Critical Thinking & Logic (Math, Statistics, Philosophy)

Critical thinking and logic are important aspects of taking the course Business Statistics. It requires students to use numerical equations/ formulas in order to create logical reasoning for a certain problem. That course helped me apply numbers in order to give clear reasoning/explanations.

Empathy & Perspective-Taking (Literature, Sociology, Psychology)

Courses that taught these different skills were crucial in my college career, they helped me consider different perspectives and understand the importance of that. Empathy and Perspective are lifelong skills that contribute to communicating with people from all different backgrounds. This can improve working within a group as well as reducing prejudice.

Ethical Reasoning (Philosophy, History, Civic Learning)

Very similar to the Empathy and Perspective section, Ethical reasoning helped me consider everyone's perspective based on their backgrounds. In a course I took last year Business Ethics, it shows how to use compassion and while still being able to be produce efficiently.

# data[].attributes.body
English Composition/Writing Courses- Leared how to effectively communicate ideas, build arguments, and support claims with evidence. While acquiring critical thinking skills, and solidified these ideas and expressed them clearly through written work on assigned topics.

Business Statistics (Quantitative Reasoning)- I learned how to look at numbers and know whether they are adequate, interpret data, and make decisions based on that evidence, not hypotheses. This will help improve my ability to make sound judgements and solve problems in the real world.

Art History (Fine Arts+Diverse Perspectives)- Study of the fine and decorative arts of the world with particular attention to interpreting meaning and multiple perspectives. How culture and identity shape interpretation of art. Empathy and awareness.

History courses (Civic Learning+Historical Inquiry)- Learning how past events shaped the current systems that we live in today and how we can be active citizens of today’s society.

Research-Based Assignments (Information Literacy)- Learned how to evaluate sources, identify bias and distinguish fact from fiction in order to become a more independent thinker and make better informed decisions.

Class Discussions/Group work (speaking and Listening)- Engaging in discussions throughout the school year will have opportunities to further develop and demonstrate ccommmunication and interpersonal skills through regular interaction with teachers and peers throughout the school.

Wellness/Fitness Course (Personal Wellness)- Learned how to assess health, recognize physical limitations and take actions to support overall wellness.

# data[].attributes.headline
Amber Sugita - Why Do I Have to Take This Course?, Discussion 7.1

# data[].attributes.subject
Amber Sugita - Why Do I Have to Take This Course?, Discussion 7.1

# data[].attributes.body
Reflecting upon Activity 2.2, there were a good amount of words that I chose that were commonly picked by my peers. The phrase I chose was to have basic necessities first, which can be a bit of a no-brainer. However, there is a reason that this was the most important thing in my eyes. Diet, and overall having sustenance keeps our bodies fueled and is thus high on that list on basic human survival. My personal wellness course, which is Health and Fitness, is the main course to help me understand how to fuel our bodies properly and make sure we stay healthy as humans.

Critical thinking was also one of my choices, which is a necessity in order for basic human survival as well. Without being able to think critically, one may continuously make wrong choices out of ignorance, and of course, that does not fare well in the long run not only with relationships, but generally lives as well. Growth is fundamental for humanity, whether it be intellectual or in other formats. Hence, this is why it is important to have courses in not only logical thinking, but media literacy, listening and speaking, ethical reasoning, civic learning, and much more. Most of these categories I am completing currently or have already done so, however each of these courses I have taken has made me see that I am improving greatly in not only my knowledge, but with my interactions in my environment. I have been doing better with interacting with coworkers, my work ethic has grown stronger, and I am questioning processes that may not be as efficient within my workplace. College Learning Foundations helped with media literacy, plus a previous humanities course. Ethical reasoning is met by my business law course, and listening and speaking comes from my sign language course, and finally civic learning comes from a history course. All of the coursework that comes from each class has, thus far, been beneficial to my career path and my social life, which are both necessities to being a human as well.

# data[].attributes.body
Communication & Expression (Writing, Speaking, English)
In these classes, I learned how to organize my ideas and communicate them clearly through both writing and speaking. This has helped me feel more confident sharing my opinions and also listening to others in a respectful way.

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving (Math, Statistics, Philosophy)
These courses helped me learn how to break down information, look at problems from different angles, and think more logically. I also became better at questioning information instead of just accepting it.

Understanding Others (Psychology, Sociology, Literature)
Through these classes, I learned how people think, act, and experience the world differently. This helped me become more open-minded and better at understanding different perspectives.

Ethics & Decision-Making (Philosophy, Civic Learning, History)
I learned how to think about right and wrong in more complex ways, especially when it comes to real-world situations. These classes made me more aware of how my choices can impact others.

Civic Awareness (History, Political Science)
These courses helped me understand how society works and how individuals can play a role in creating change. It made me more aware of my responsibilities as a member of a community.

# data[].attributes.body
In my general education courses, I’ve learned many skills that help me “human effectively.” For example, in communication classes, I learned how to express my ideas clearly and listen to others. In psychology and health courses, I learned about emotions, stress management, and how to take care of my mental and physical well-being. Classes like math and science helped me develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. I also gained teamwork and responsibility skills through group projects. All of these experiences have helped me become more aware, disciplined, and better at interacting with others.

# data[].attributes.body
Integrative learning is a type of approach that allows students to utilize all the different concepts that they learned in order to implement them to solve complex questions. It’s a type of learning that could be applied in most classrooms, but in all aspects of life. It allows students to open up their mind, and come up with different methods of thinking in order to accomplish a task.

A course that I took that helped me utilize integrative learning was in my first year seminar course, this was at Salem State. The idea of this course was to set ourselves up in order to be successful college students. I appreciate that this class took place in my freshman year. The different things that were taught to us was the idea of time management, being able to recognize what’s a priority and having to schedule that in our lives. As well as finding time to decompress because that is equally as important as putting the work in (as long as you are doing so). Also being able to take advantage of the resources that are in front of us. Things like the library, our professors, and even our peers can help us for the time that we are there. That course taught me that college isn’t forever and these resources that are available at the moment will also not be there forever so it’s important to take advantage and soak up as much knowledge as possible.

I’d say these things displayed the importance of integrative learning because time management and taking advantage of resources is applicable throughout life. It also makes different courses somewhat easier when considering those aspects. Creating time to complete homework/project/study, or even reach out to someone who has taken that course or teaches it can help massively.

# data[].attributes.body
I like how this activity connects back to the idea of how to human effectively, because it actually made me realize that a lot of what we learn in general education classes isn’t random, it’s important skills and information we use every day.

From my classes, I think some of the biggest human skills I’ve picked up are communication, critical thinking, and understanding other people’s perspectives. In my English and discussion-based classes, I’ve learned how to express my thoughts clearly and also how to listen to other viewpoints without immediately shutting them down. That’s huge in real life.

My business law classes especially made me think more about right vs. wrong in situations that aren’t always black and white. It helped me slow down and actually think before reacting, which honestly applies a lot in my day-to-day life, especially with my family and at work.

Even classes like math or business tie in more than people think. They teach problem-solving, patience, and how to break things down step by step. That’s something I use constantly, whether it’s dealing with finances, school, or just figuring out life in general.

Working in restaurants, I see these skills all the time. You have to communicate clearly, read people, stay calm under pressure, and solve problems quickly. It’s basically “humaning” in real time. So even though school and real life can feel separate, they actually overlap a lot.

Overall, I think general education classes help build the foundation of being a well-rounded person, not just someone who knows facts. They teach you how to think, communicate, and handle real-life situations, which is honestly the most important part.

# data[].attributes.body
After reflecting on the earlier assignment, I had to really think about which specific course taught me the skills that I mentioned and I cannot narrow it down to one course for each skill. I first said accountability. this skill is something that was built over time with every increase in difficulty I had in my college career. In my early courses, If I missed an assignment I would be allowed time to make it up. Then the penalty grew to having point deducted for follow on courses if an assignment was late. it wasn't until the middle of my career where I received a zero for an assignment that the concept of accountability really hit me. I realized that I have to meet the expectations that are laid out for me. And if I think I won't be able to meet it, ask for help well before the due date. I carry that skill with me in my job, I carry that skill in my relationship with my wife, and with every other endeavor in life. The second skill I mentioned was taking care of your body. and this is a concept I didn't really grasp until my early 30s. I didn't put too much effort into optimizing my health until I realize that my kids will be dependent on me, forever. So as they say on an airplane: You can't help someone else with their oxygen mask until you secure your own. I guess taking the master fitness course in the military really helped me understand everything. That with the basic level biology courses and how life works all helped me understand my body and how it functions with activity and the right diet. Finally, I mentioned not judging people. I still fall for this from time to time and you don't really have an appreciation of this until you meet and talk with people in depth. someone shares an opinion that you don't agree with and suddenly you find yourself forming an opinion without knowing any personal struggles they have been through. I have been on the receiving end of judgment. So I Understand this, fully. Someone mentioned to me last semester that I was a little old to just be finishing my undergraduate degree. They had no idea I spent most of my adult life in the military and building a family and that Now I am just starting to dial in my own needs and skill requirements. Again, I think this was developed through the aggregate of courses I have taken through my college career and meeting people from different backgrounds and circumstances.

# data[].attributes.body
When I posted about how to human correctly, the words I picked from the word cloud were food, water, rest, connections and critical thinking.

Food-Since my first degree was in culinary arts, a lot of mu classes had to do with food. I took American cuisine, international cuisine, garde manger, intro to baking and pastry arts, baking 2, menu planning, meat cutting, dining service, etc. These classes taught me about the science behind food and the art behind foodservice and hospitality.

Water-The classes that might fit this category are mixology and personal nutrition. Water is a need for humans to function and we learned about that in nutrition. In mixology we leaned how icing down beverages can make them more refreshing!

Rest-I can't think of any college credit classes I have taken that have to do with rest, but some staff professional development seminars we have done at school focused on stress management and mindfulness. I have learned that rest is a very important part of humaning correctly, that often gets overlooked or frowned upon, but in reality is a crucial part of living your best life.

Communication- Classes that have been great for my education in communication are public speaking, food & culture, english comp 1 and 2, how to manage student behavior in a healthy safe environment and sheltered English immersion.

English Composition helps you organize your ideas

SEI helps you adapt your message to your audience

Public Speaking helps you deliver your message clearly and confidently.

Food & Culture helped me understand why group of people have certain traditions, food staples and cultural norms.

Critical thinking-The classes I took for credit that tie in with critical thinking are my co-op experience at a hotel where I had to learn and adapt in the moment. Menu planning and cost control where I learned to create a menu for a mock business and cost items accordingly to stay in business. Sheltered English Immersion helped me get a deeper dive into diverse perspectives. My community service internship at a soup kitchen in Providence, RI also helped my learn more diverse perspectives and empathy.

# data[].attributes.body
After completing the Library Research 101 tutorials, I feel a lot more confident using library resources for academic work. The information sources section helped me better understand the difference between scholarly and non-scholarly materials, especially when it comes to finding credible sources for assignments. The search process tutorial made it clearer how to use keywords effectively instead of just typing full questions, which should help me find better results faster.

The evaluating sources section was especially useful because it gave me a clear way to judge whether a source is reliable, like checking the author, date, and purpose. I also didn’t have many lingering questions, but I think I’ll need more practice applying these skills in real research assignments. Overall, the tutorials were straightforward and helpful for building stronger academic research habits.

# data[].attributes.body
In Activity 7.1, you are asked to look back at the list you made in Activity 2.2 about what people need in order to “human effectively” — basically what skills, knowledge, and behaviors help someone be a good, functioning human in life. Then you think about all the general education courses you’ve taken so far. The goal is to create a new list showing where in those courses you learned skills or knowledge that help you be a better human being — like communication, critical thinking, ethics, problem-solving, teamwork, and so on. It’s about connecting what you learned in classes to real life and personal growth.

So in your answer, you’d list general education courses you’ve taken and explain how each one helped you build skills that matter for life beyond school — not just for passing tests, but for being thoughtful, effective, and engaged in the world.

# data[].attributes.body
Integrative learning means connecting what you learn in different classes and experiences so you can use that knowledge in new situations. It’s not just memorizing facts — it’s about making links between ideas, reflecting on what you’ve learned, and applying that learning to real problems or decisions. This helps you think more deeply and be better prepared for work or life after college.

In courses that use integrative learning, you might do projects where you combine skills from more than one class, reflect on how different experiences fit together, or solve real-world problems using what you’ve learned. For example, a group project might require writing, research, and teamwork — pulling skills from different classes into one task.

If you’ve taken classes that asked you to reflect on your learning, connect ideas across subjects, or use knowledge in real situations, you’ve already done integrative learning. Other examples could include internships, research projects, or service learning — all of which ask you to bring together different skills and ideas.

# data[].attributes.body
One issue I feel strongly about and hope to see meaningful progress on within my lifetime is climate change. Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation are already affecting ecosystems and human communities around the world. Addressing climate change requires not only scientific understanding but also collective action, informed decision-making, and long-term commitment. Education plays a critical role in preparing individuals to contribute to this effort. In particular, several General Education learning outcomes can equip people with the knowledge and skills necessary to create change.

The first important learning outcome is critical thinking. Climate change is a complex issue involving science, politics, economics, and ethics. Developing critical thinking skills allows individuals to evaluate evidence, identify misinformation, and make informed decisions about environmental policies and personal behaviors. For example, someone with strong critical thinking skills can assess the credibility of sources discussing climate science and avoid being misled by false or biased claims.

A second key outcome is quantitative reasoning. Understanding climate data—such as carbon emissions, temperature trends, and energy consumption—requires the ability to interpret numbers, graphs, and statistics. By practicing quantitative reasoning, individuals can better grasp the scale of the problem and evaluate the effectiveness of proposed solutions. This skill is essential for both scientists and everyday citizens who want to understand reports or make environmentally responsible choices.

The third learning outcome is ethical reasoning. Climate change raises important moral questions about responsibility, fairness, and the impact of current actions on future generations. Ethical reasoning helps individuals consider these issues thoughtfully, such as whether wealthier nations have a greater responsibility to reduce emissions or how to balance economic growth with environmental protection. This perspective encourages more just and sustainable decision-making.

Another valuable outcome is communication skills. Solving climate change requires collaboration and public awareness. Being able to clearly communicate ideas—whether through writing, speaking, or visual media—helps individuals advocate for change, educate others, and participate in meaningful discussions. Effective communication can influence public opinion, inspire action, and support policy changes.

Finally, civic engagement is crucial. Addressing climate change involves participation in community and political processes, such as voting, advocacy, and supporting environmental initiatives. By developing civic engagement skills, individuals learn how to take action, work with others, and contribute to solutions at local, national, and global levels. This outcome empowers people to move beyond awareness and actively work toward change.

In conclusion, climate change is a pressing global issue that requires informed and engaged citizens. By developing critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, ethical reasoning, communication skills, and civic engagement, individuals can play a meaningful role in addressing this challenge. Education not only increases understanding but also empowers action, making it a powerful tool in the fight against climate change.

# data[].attributes.body
After completing the library tutorials, I found that they helped reinforce some of the foundational skills I need for academic research. Each if parts of the material felt familiar from other classes, going through the tutorials again clarified the differences between information sources, reminded me how the search process works, and helped me think more critically about how I evaluate what I find. Revisiting these concepts made me more aware of how I approach research and where I sometimes rush or make assumptions.

The tutorials on evaluating sources and academic honesty were especially useful because they highlighted the importance of credibility, accuracy, and ethical participation in academic work. They also helped me recognize areas where I still have questions, such as how to judge borderline sources or how to refine search terms more effectively. Overall, the tutorials served as a helpful refresher and gave me a clearer sense of how to navigate research with more confidence and intention.

# data[].attributes.body
In thinking back to my original list of what it means to "human effectively," I realize that many of those skills- communication, empathy, critical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding different perspectives were shaped by my general education courses. Classes in English and the humanities helped me learn how to express myself clearly, analyze complex ideas, and connect with different human experiences. These courses strengthened my ability to communicate thoughtfully and interpret meaning, both of which are essential to navigating everyday life and relationships.

Other general educations courses contributed in different but equally important ways. Math and science taught me patience, logical reasoning, and how to break down problems step by step, while social science courses expanded my awareness of people, cultures, and systems. Even courses that didn't seem directly tied to "being human" ended up teaching discipline, time management, and adaptability. Altogether, these experiences helped me build the practical and interpersonal skills that support becoming a more capable and effective human being.

# data[].attributes.headline
Amber Sugita - Good Trouble, Necessary Trouble

# data[].attributes.subject
Amber Sugita - Good Trouble, Necessary Trouble

# data[].attributes.body
The fact remains that LGBTQ+ rights are still at risk of being revoked. Every single day, people of the community fear what will occur next that will revoke their rights to love people of the same sex, or to be transgender. As someone within this community as well, I fear for my rights every single day. That is something I want to see changed, where the United States can be a universal safe haven for everyone who is a part of the LGBTQ+ community.

With careful consideration, there is quite a lot that needs to be learned to change this kind of problem. The first one is that we must be able to speak and listen properly when it comes to identifying and remedying LGBTQ+ rights. This is because without knowing how to communicate correctly back and forth, misinformation spreads, which is what the topic pushes to help scholars avoid. Next is seeing into the diverse perspectives of the LGBTQ+ community. This aids with knowledge through not only history, but modern perspectives as well, how people within the community then and now have been affected by systemic discrimination and the implementation or revocation of laws. Eventually, this kind of understanding helps lead allies to help make the right decisions for the community.

The fine arts are also able to loop into diverse perspectives, as the LGBTQ+ community does an immense amount of communication through art. How to properly interpret LGBTQ+ art aids in avoiding harm towards those in the community, as art tends to speak louder than words at times. I actually did a paper on contemporary art that tied into the community, and I am still baffled at the amount of not just art, but photography as well that speaks to the struggles the community faces on a regular basis. Integrative learning is a must in order to face the issues within LGBTQ+ rights as well, as no situation involving these rights are the same, such as the bans on gender-affirming care. Being able to adapt the knowledge of communication, diverse perspectives, into real-world situations is a must. A good example are the bans and limitations on gender-affirming care for children under the transgender umbrella, where fighting against these statutes must take the adaptation of the countless struggles the community has faced beforehand into a new light. Finally, the most crucial part of the learning outcomes that would help change the direction for LGBTQ+ issues is information literacy. Misinformation is rampant within the news regarding those within the community, such as the indoctrination or “grooming” of children to favor the community. Learning to know what is real and false information is crucial to combatting the mistreatments of LGBTQ+ people.

# data[].attributes.body
One issue that I would like to see change in my lifetime is the immigration rights crisis that we are having in the United States. In my career in the last two years I have seen so many of my employees live in fear of constantly being deported. Regardless of their immigration status ie, J1 Visa, Greencard, School Visa, etc, I believe that America is a country founded by immigrants. Within the restaurant group that I work for immigrants make up almost 65% of our total workforce and all live in constant fear.

In order for this to change, I believe there needs to be a better alignment or reasoning behind the process. More and more in the news we are seeing how people are hunted down and then incorrectly and illegally deported because ICE believes they are illegal. My cousin whom is a legal citizen of the states was asked outside Manchester Airport for his papers and where he is from.

The first focus of learning of most importance is Diverse Perspectives. There needs to be a heightened approach to the backgrounds and approaches that you are following. In life, everything is a two sided street. In my career I see all sorts and shapes of people, a course on diverse perspectives would benefit those.

Another focus course would be on information literacy. Prior to forming a solidified opinion, there needs to be a highlight on how and where to find the information. With today's media and the fear mongering that is constant, I can see why most immigrants are afraid.

In continuation ethical reasoning courses should be mandatory as it is easy to form a position whether it is right or wrong without proper knowledge. When I think of ethics I think of what's right and what's wrong, however, the difference is being able to process the situations and get down to the truth of the matter. "Ethical reasoning builds peoples'"abilities to evaluate their own values and beliefs, think critically about ethical issues, and apply an ethical reasoning process to generate sound decisions"(Horner, 2021, P130)(Tracy,2026)

Speaking and listening courses would also be part of the solution. In the current world, people need to know how to both be an active speaker and listener. One of the courses in my college experience that influenced me the most was public speaking/communications. In this course I had to write three types of speeches(informative, persuasive, and narrative), with this I learned where to find credible information and where to find the facts. With the immigration crisis, we need more people whom know where to find the necessary information to assist in the solution. From there, they would be able to properly advocate for the change necessary for all people to feel safe.

Finally, Procedural & Logical Thinking course would be beneficial for most to take. In the crisis of immigration, there needs to be more research on the process of becoming a citizen, ensuring resources are available to those in process of acquiring the proper paperwork to stay in the United States. With studying procedural and logical thinking "We can use a rational, systematic procedure to arrive at conclusions, examine or build underlying patterns and structures, or deduce further information"(Tracy, 2026) This course outlines the investigation of the problem while outlining potential solutions. In our current immigration crisis, where we have a large population doing jobs that no-one else wants or is willing to do, contributing to the tax base, and not causing trouble there needs to be a solution for them to stay.

If they are here serving as a benefit to society, what is the real issue of them being here?

To change, we need to adapt as a society gather factual information and follow that. But, if a process(immigration) is broken we need to find a way to fix it. Or I fear that we will find ourselves in a status of unintentional segregation. Our immigrants should be of equal importance to our economy as a general citizen.

# data[].attributes.body
I will like to see the expanding of access to affordable healthcare for low income families with children. I feel strongly about this issue because, growing up from a low income, I see how limited MassHealth eligibility creates daily barriers to care. Real change requires policy advocacy, accurate data, public awareness, and interdisciplinary solutions.Five General Education learning outcomes from the wheel that would help me address it are:

Civic Learning: It will teache government systems and how to advocate for expanded programs like MassHealth.

Information Literacy: It will equip me with the ability to research reliable health policy data.

Scientific Inquiry & Analysis : This will help me to evaluate medical statistics and evidence based solutions.

Critical & Creative Thinking: This will enable me to bring about innovative ways to overcome healthcare barriers.

Integrative Learning : This will enable me to blend or combine knowledge from multiple fields to create practical family-health equity solutions.

With the help of these general education courses, i will be able improve and expand Healthcare to most low income families.

# data[].attributes.body
Something I am passionate about changing is how worker’s compensation (workers comp) insurance works. Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to help employees who are injured on the job, but the system often produces outcomes that are slower and less effective than if the person was not using worker’s compensation insurance. Research shows that workers receiving compensation often recover more slowly than those who are not, sometimes by 20–30%, due to delays and system-related factors (Institute for Work & Health, 2015; Harris et al., 2005) The claims process can be stressful because it involves paperwork and approvals in between every step of recovery. There are sometimes disputes between employers, insurers, and providers which could delay things further.

The system could be improved by focusing on clearer communication, and a more collaborative approach between all parties involved. Providing immediate access to medical care and reducing administrative delays would help injured employees recover sooner. These changes would help employees make a faster recovery and less stress.

Courses such as communication skills, quantitative reasoning, and information literacy can play roles in addressing these issues. Strong communication skills will help all involved clearly understand expectations and recovery plans. Quantitative reasoning can assist companies in analyzing injury data and identifying ways to improve response strategies. Information literacy would help both employers and employees make informed decisions. Skills related to ethical reasoning, diverse perspectives, and personal wellness would help the insurance company and the injured employee. Being educated in these areas can lead to a more efficient and effective workers’ compensation process with better outcomes from illness or injury.

# data[].attributes.body
In my view, college athletes need more support and awareness regarding mental health. As a student-athlete, I understand the difficulties of balancing academics, athletics, and outside expectations. Therefore, I believe we need to focus more on helping athletes manage these pressures. To do this, I need to understand how different support systems work and what changes are possible at the college and organizational levels. Also, I need to understand the different experiences athletes have to talk about this issue in a way that others can relate to.

Information Literacy will help me find accurate information and studies about mental health in athletes so I can support my ideas with real evidence. Civic Learning will help me understand how colleges and organizations like the NCAA operate so I can figure out the best ways to push for change. Ethical reasoning will guide my examination of fairness in the expectations imposed on athletes and their treatment. Furthermore, the development of speaking and listening skills will facilitate the clear articulation of my perspectives while also enabling me to comprehend the experiences and apprehensions of others. Integrative learning will provide the framework for synthesizing knowledge acquired across various disciplines and applying it to practical scenarios within the realms of sports and mental health.

Overall, these skills will help me better understand the issue and give me the tools I need to speak up and push for change in a meaningful way.

# data[].attributes.body
One issue I feel strongly about is LGBTQ+ rights, especially making sure people are treated equally and feel safe being who they are. There has been progress, but there’s still a lot of judgment and discrimination. I’d like to see a future where people don’t have to fight just to be accepted.

This matters to me because I’ve seen how it affects people in real life. Whether it’s friends or coworkers, you can tell when someone feels like they have to hold back who they are. That shouldn’t happen. As a parent, it also makes me think about the kind of world my kids are growing up in. I want them to be accepting and respectful of everyone.

Some of the general education outcomes that connect to this are diverse perspectives, ethical reasoning, speaking and listening skills, information literacy, and civic learning. Learning about different perspectives helps people become more open-minded. Ethical reasoning pushes people to think about fairness, and communication skills are important for real conversations that lead to change. Information literacy helps people avoid misinformation. Being able to find accurate information helps people form better opinions. Civic learning is important because it encourages people to speak up, vote, and support policies that promote equality.

Overall, I think change comes from education, open conversations, and people being willing to challenge their own thinking.

# data[].attributes.body
These tutorials were excellent and I have no questions or confusion about them. I would recommend having this due earlier in the course in case anyone has not used the library.

# data[].attributes.body
1.      Sociology and short stories will teach empathy. Learning about how others live will give a unique perspective into others’ lives.

2.      Speech encourages curiosity. During the class we learned about other people’s passions, which made me interested in topics I had never thought of.

3.      Speech also covers the ability to convey emotions through facial expressions and body language.

4.      World Civilization II will give insight into how to act in social situations.

5.      Business ethics should teach how to be responsible.

6.      World Civilization II should teach about civic duty.

7.      Short stories are a great place to learn about love. It also helps with the next two on the list, loss and dealing with disappointment.

# data[].attributes.body
I would like to see more protection for LGBTQ+ people and their rights. I will need to be able to speak to crowds and know how to convey my message effectively. I will need to understand the workings of my government to figure out the most effective ways to implement change. I will need to understand the diverse cultures of the people I talk to speak more effectively. Writing will help in creating speeches to persuade the public. Ethical Reasoning will help me develop arguments when writing. Civic Learning will help me decide the most efficient way to enact change in the government. Speaking and Listening will help me when I make speeches and when I am listening to concerns so I am able to produce solutions. Diverse perspective will give me an insight into different people’s experiences so I can best relate my points to persuade them to see things in my way.

# data[].attributes.headline
Good Trouble, Necessary Trouble (Brian Holmes)

# data[].attributes.subject
Good Trouble, Necessary Trouble (Brian Holmes)

# data[].attributes.body
The issue that I am choosing to discuss is Vaccines. I do think that a lot of vaccines can be safe and helpful for society as a whole as well as the individual. While this is my stance, I also believe that it is not right for people to be forced to get vaccinated. An alternative if an individual refuses to get a vaccine could be that they are required to distance themselves from other people. Completely and totally isolate themselves. If this is impossible for an individual due to certain reasons such as a job, then they must choose between their job and getting the vaccine. The five General Education learning outcomes I have chosen are Scientific Inquiry & Analysis, Ethical reasoning, Personal wellness, Logical thinking, and listening. Scientific inquiry & Analysis address the vaccine issue by providing logical and backed up facts that people can count on in order to make decisions about certain vaccines and whether they take them or not. Ethical reasoning can help when you take that information you know about the vaccine and actually break down the pros and cons to see what is the best choice. We use ethical reasoning in our day to day lives and should always try to do whats best for us and those around us. Personal wellness is an obvious choice because vaccines directly affect you health. Whether it be positive or negative. The initial vaccine could possibly make the individual very sick, while the disease itself if not vaccinated can also make someone very sick. So you must make a choice with the best interest of your wellbeing in mind. Logical thinking does hand in hand with ethical reasoning. In order to make the right decision for yourself you must think logically on what to do. Now finally, listening. Listening is a skill that sometimes slides under the radar. Hearing something is a lot different that listening to it and taken in the information and using it to your benefit. In order to make the right decision about a vaccine you have to take the information that is out there and actually listen and understand what it means and what it can do for you.

# data[].attributes.body
I have never taken an integrative course until this semester. In the first half of the semester, I took HR Management. In the class, I was expected to take HR concepts like employee management and retention and apply them to realistic workplace scenarios and present these ideas through visual aids and powerpoint presentations. In the final project for this course I was required to create a 10 year professional plan using HR concepts from the course and built a powerpoint presentation illustrating this. In this course I combined business knowledge, with communication skills, critical thinking and technology skills. Now that the course is over and I am reflecting now, I can see that it helped me apply my classroom knowledge to real-life situations. It also helped me present my ideas in a clear and professional way. This class helped me see how integrative learning can truly prepare you for the real work professional world.

# data[].attributes.body
As a business management major, I was able to complete many courses that apply to many of these Caterogies. Last semester I took the course: Social Political Environment of Business. This course focused on how businesses are affected by government policies, and the relationship between individuals and businesses. This course primarily focused on Civic Learning and showed me that civic learning is essential for understanding the role of business in society. Another course that I took at a previous university is business law which can directly apply to Ethical Reasoning. The course focused on laws that govern businesses and learned the difference between making a legal decision and making an ethical decision. Ultimately ethical reasoning helps better long-term decisions and business law can show that while following the law is important, maintaining ethical reasoning is just as critical.

# data[].attributes.body
As a business management major, I was able to complete a course in many of these Caterogies. One course that stood out to me was International Marketing. I took this course last semester and in this class I analyzed consumer behavior, market tends and advertising strategies. This relates to information literacy because in my international marketing class I studied global markets, consumer behavior in different vaunted and cultural differences. Information literacy was the primary focus in this course as I learned that some data may be biased based on the country or the government in that country. I learned to compare information across different countries and how to recognize bias in how information is presented to consumers. Ultimately this course showed me how important it is to evaluate information carefully.

# data[].attributes.body
I will focus on misinformation and media literacy, which helps people recognize and combat misinformation. I believe that media literacy is an essential tool to help people evaluate information, and by increasing media literacy I hope to improve the health, politics, and overall well-being of our communities in the future. It is important to note that having access to reliable information is only the first step; it is also important to be able to understand it and to be able to share it clearly. These media literacy skills are closely tied to a number of General Education learning outcomes.

It’s time to talk about Information Literacy and why it’s crucial in today’s information age. Before we can tackle the war on misinformation, we have to know how to critically assess the information we read, and to have an awareness of any possible bias or information distortion. If we do not learn how to become information literate, we will always be at risk of being misled by misinformation. Being information literate helps us to think critically and become more informed. It also helps to prevent the spread of misinformation.

Critical and Creative Thinking is important. As individuals, we all have to learn to question, to examine, to reflect on the arguments and information that are being presented. To develop an informed perspective on the world around us. We need to evaluate information, which can often be manipulated to attract attention by playing on our emotions, with sensational headings, and with insufficient information, making what are often very complex issues easy to understand. As evaluators we have to think about how the information can be divided into parts to assess its credibility and where the bias lies.

The truth about Speaking and Listening We know that Speaking and Listening is an area of learning where children have to navigate how to challenge or refute information as it is passed on through conversation. Communication, negotiation and agreement and listening to contrasting views are all important skills in facilitating discussions and preventing misinformation. This area of learning and geography is crucial in explaining how to refute myths without "falling out" with others.

Students will be learning about Ethical Reasoning as part of their online safety curriculum. Information sharing is a privilege and with that privilege comes corresponding responsibilities. We know that sharing unsubstantiated or untrue information can have serious consequences for not only the source, but also for the target, as well as for the broader community and society in general. The concept of ethical reasoning is one that asks us to consider the impact of our actions upon others; that it involves the exercise of critical thinking to determine those social norms, expectations and rules of behaviour which surround personal and professional communication practices.

The reason critical thinking is so relevant to the fight against misinformation is that so many misinformation issues start with a science issue such as health, climate change, or technology. Scientific Inquiry and Analysis is the process by which we get our scientific information. It determines what is real and what is not. It allows us to determine what the quality of the evidence for and against a claim is. Critical thinking is about building trust in a process, not in our opinion or our imagination.

The combined skills reveal that battling misinformation is a much more complex challenge than initially thought. It requires not only critical thinking, clear communication, ethics, but a host of other skills. And these are exactly the types of skills that students are supposed to gain through General Education.

# data[].attributes.body
One topic that I feel very strongly about is the management of taxpayer dollars. Specifically, how we send so much money outside of the United States while so many Americans struggle to live at the most minimal levels of comfort. Back when the government was formed and we had a collective understanding that taxes were meant to improve our lives, I think everyone agreed and supported the intent. Unfortunately, those in government have way too much influence on spending. The people who elected these officials should be the ones who dictate how that money is spent. I feel that if we are going to be taxed upwards of 40% of our income (Here in Massachusetts, anyway), then we should have a lot more say in how it is used. Being in the military for nearly 20 years working in logistics and acquisitions, I can tell you first hand that the government has zero respect for the tax dollar. The amount of fraud waste and abuse that exists on the lowest level of the government serves as the tip of the iceberg for how much waste truly exists on the federal level. We send so much money overseas buying million dollar jets, trucks that cost a quarter million dollars, and equipment for individual Soldiers that is in excess of $100k. I understand that a strong nation needs a strong military, but the fact that we have a military presence in most of the world is astounding. There is one HUGE way we can instantly save money: Bring our military back to our shores. In my opinion- we have no need to be in Japan, Korea, Europe, and the Middle East. We are rebuilding schools in all of these third world countries, which sounds great, but we have inner cities here in America that house children in schools with mold and other toxic conditions. I am willing to bet a small fraction being spent overseas would pay huge dividends if those funds were spent here. But, here is where I go down the path of conspiracy: Politicians don't get to line their pockets by spending money, state side. We need to maximize our civic learning and teach our children how the government works, now, and how it should work 30 years from now when they come into adulthood trying to live their lives. We need to focus on personal wellness so we aren't dependent on a depleted health care system to support us because we are sick. we need to be able to know the difference between right and wrong and have a more solidified eithical and moral compass- yes, it is important to help people. but like they say on an airplane before taking off: "secure your own oxygen mask before attempting to help the person next to you." If we can't take care of ourselves, then we cannot take care of others. And that is not selfishness. We need to study our history and fully understand what happens if we continue on the trajectory that we are on. We need to understand the very basics of life skills so that we can promote a better understanding of life and the basic requirements to live comfortably. We also need to look to the left and to the right of us and stop trying to compete, or having a superiority complex over our neighbors. the only way we can thrive as a society is if we unify our strengths and support each other's weaknesses. Bottom line, th best way to fix our current system is to enact term limits. you shouldn't be a millionaire working as a public servant. this is NOT exclusive to democrats or republicans. it is our government as a whole. our tax dollars need to ba managed properly... and if they don't, we need to dump some tea into the harbor.

# data[].attributes.body
I have not taken a course in civic learning in a college setting. I did, however, take course sin the military that taught us how the government worked, how we were called into war, and how war declarations are made. We learned about the differences between an active war, an active conflict, and what a theater of operation was defined as. We learned about military structure and organization and the functions of each branch of the military and how we all work together to form the most lethal force in the world.

For ethical reasoning, I took a course called “egoism vs. altruism.” We studied why people of fame did the things they do. Specifically, I did a paper on mother Theresa and studied her impact on the worls. Generally, when you think of her, you think of a selfless person who did good for the world but my perspective of it could be she was trying to make herself look good and appear holy. I personally believed the former was true, that she was truly a good person, but it was interesting to look at it from the devil’s advocates’ perspective.

I did not take any courses in fine arts. I would imagine that taking a course in that subject would help define the creative portion of someone’s brain. It would allow them to explore the imaginative portion of their exploration. It would help them see things from multiple perspectives and help them come to peace with the idea that not everything is linear.

I have taken multiple historical inquiry courses. From the standard US History to the History of the criminal justice and psychological fields. It is always beneficial to understand how modern ideas and theories came to be what they are, today. I feel that in every aspect in life, there is a history and a reasoning behind why we do it. I think it is ingrained in us as humans as we grow. If we make a mistake, we tend to not do it again, and if we make a choice that benefits us, we tend to repeat those choices.

I have taken a handful of courses in literary Inquiry. I have take African American literature, and I read several books in French for my language development courses. I think literature plays a vital role in our ability to understand the stories told in the past that have an impact on our lives today. Like history, literature can teach us lessons in what to avoid, and what to repeat.

Personal wellness is a topic that I am continuously learning about and building upon. In the military I took a course to be certified as a master fitness trainer. We dispelled major mainstream myths about wellness, about dieting, and about exercise. I use the concepts in those courses to help teach others about personal wellness and how to tell the difference between truths and myths when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

For procedural and logical thinking, I tok a course in statistics. This was a course where I thrived because we worked with data. We learned how to display facts. We learned how to analyze data to support research and to confirm truths in reporting, Statistics can help in almost every career. It goes back to the idea of History and repeating good choices and deviating from bad choices. With data to support those advisements, it helps guide people to make the correct choices that is beneficial to them.

I took a course in Biology in my first year of college. It really set the stage for understanding life from the smallest cells to the most complex animals like humans. It was interesting to learn the basics of life development and evolvement. I apply it in my everyday life in managing my garden, managing my chicken flock, or teaching my kids basic life skills. It also gave me a better appreciation for all forms of life. As a kid, we used to kill bigs and spiders for the fun of it. Now, I try to preserve life and recognize their value to the ecosystem in this world.

# data[].attributes.body
One issue I feel strongly about and hope to see meaningful change in during my lifetime is financial literacy inequality. Too many people especially young adults, low-income families, and marginalized communities enter major life decisions without the knowledge or support needed to navigate budgeting, credit, loans, or long-term planning. this lack of access creates cycles that are difficult to break and contributes to broader economic inequality. Addressing this issue matters because financial understanding isn't just about money; it's about stability, opportunity, and the ability to make empowered choices.

Creating change in this area requires a combination of knowledge, skills, and intentional action. It involves understanding how financial systems work, recognizing the structural barriers that limit access to education, and developing the communication skills needed to teach financial concepts in ways that are approachable and culturally relevant. It also requires collaboration with schools, community organizations, and policymakers to design programs that are accessible and sustainable. Ultimately, meaningful progress depends on both individual initiative and collective effort.

Several General Education learning outcomes directly support this work. Critical Thinking helps identify the root causes of financial inequality and evaluate which solutions are most effective. Communication is essential for explaining financial concepts clearly and building trust with diverse audiences. Quantitative Reasoning strengthens the ability to analyze data, interpret trends, and assess the impact of financial programs. Global and Cultural Awareness ensures that solutions are inclusive and sensitive to the different financial realities people face. Finally, Ethical Reasoning guides decisions that prioritize fairness, transparency, and long-term community well-being. Together, these outcomes provide a strong foundation for addressing financial literacy inequality in a meaningful and lasting way.

# data[].attributes.headline
Keith Powers Good trouble Necessary Trouble

# data[].attributes.subject
Keith Powers Good trouble Necessary Trouble

# data[].attributes.body
Climate change is a significant challenge for our generation, requiring us to learn, develop skills, and take action. My general education classes have given me helpful tools to address this issue. In Scientific Inquiry and Analysis, I learned how to read research, interpret data, and distinguish facts from misinformation. These skills help me understand climate science and identify real solutions. Since climate change affects exposed communities, I try to make choices that respect both people and the environment. Civic Learning taught me how to get involved in my community and advocate for important issues. Now, I feel ready to lead local projects, support effective policies, and motivate others to act on climate change. I also practiced clear communication and connection techniques. Whether I am writing reports, articles, or social media posts, I know that good writing helps spread awareness and inspire change. Integrative Learning showed me how science, ethics, policy, and social studies are connected. With this understanding, I can create practical solutions that combine research, fairness, and community involvement. By developing these skills, I am preparing to take meaningful action on climate change. I hope to make a positive and lasting difference in my community. Overall, my general education has given me the confidence to face this challenge with a balanced approach.

# data[].attributes.body
To me, being an effective person is more than just getting by each day. It's about communicating well, thinking clearly, showing empathy, taking care of myself, and helping others. Looking back at my general education classes, I see how each one helped me develop these skills. Writing and English classes taught me to share my ideas and organize my thoughts. Reading and sociology helped me learn about different cultures and think more critically. Science and math showed me how to understand data, think logically, and make better decisions. Music, art, and wellness classes encouraged me to be creative. All these experiences demonstrate that being an effective person means using skills such as reading, writing, analyzing, creating, empathizing, and acting with purpose. Each class has provided me with something valuable that shapes who I am today and how I relate to others.

# data[].attributes.body
Integrative Learning means drawing on multiple perspectives, modes of inquiry, and experiences even seemingly unrelated ones o build a versatile "toolbox" for life beyond the classroom. It involves high-impact activities like internships, research, community engagement, or study abroad. For example, a co-taught climate change course blends earth science with historical analysis, allowing students to integrate evidence from both fields.Experts note that real life demands this approach: addressing climate change or maintaining democracy requires science, ethics, history, psychology, and more. By taking these courses, students develop critical thinking, synthesis, and adaptability essential for careers, lifelong learning, and tackling interconnected challenges.

# data[].attributes.headline
Why Do I have to Take This Course? Discussion 6.1 - Nik Kedian

# data[].attributes.subject
Why Do I have to Take This Course? Discussion 6.1 - Nik Kedian

# data[].attributes.body
I believe this is the second integrative learning course that I have completed in my college education journey. As referenced in the textbook "Integration courses provide the opportunity to...Learn how to take knowledge and skills from different perspectives and apply them in new ways." This is a statement I have found to be true while taking this course as it has made a finer connection between General Education and their effectiveness and connection to the workforce.

The other course that I would believe to be considered Integrative Learning would be the public speaking/communications course completed at NECC. This course connected how writing turns into speaking, and public demonstrations. Learning the ability to turn a piece of literature or announcing something to a crowd is a skill that I connected to while completing that course.

Integration courses are there to connect classroom learning to application in real world scenarios. I feel each course I have taken through my college journey could be attributed at some point to real world application whether I think of it or not.

One other course that may be considered would be a Skills for Success or entrepreneurship course.

# data[].attributes.body
I have not taken a class in integrative learning. After looking into the definition of an integrated learning course, I reached the conclusion that they are classes that focus on connecting what you learn in different subjects and applying it to real-world situations. Instead of studying just one topic, the class encourages students to think about how ideas from different courses relate to each other.. Students may reflect on what they have learned in college and show how subjects like math, writing, history, and science can work together to help solve problems and better understand things The goal of the class is to help students see how the knowledge and skills they gain from different classes can be combined and used in practical ways beyond the classroom.

# data[].attributes.body
Integrative Learning is most effective when you see connections between your academic studies and professional experiences. In business and finance courses, for example, you often apply concepts like financial analysis or communication to real-world scenarios. This approach also aligns with roles in administration and hospitality, where multitasking and operational thinking integrate classroom learning with practical skills.

The method is valuable in courses that encourage open-ended problem-solving, cross-disciplinary collaboration, or linking personal experience to academic knowledge. Projects might combine financial metrics, teamwork, and narrative clarity, demonstrating how integrative learning connects diverse subjects.

Reflecting on patterns between classroom lessons and workplace situations enhances integration, while transferable skills like problem-solving support broader understandings of consumer behavior or organizational culture. Ultimately, integrative learning equips you for real-world decisional, where issues are rarely confined to a single field.

# data[].attributes.body
I honestly didn’t really know what integrative learning meant before this, but thinking about it, I feel like I’ve already experienced it without realizing it. A lot of my classes overlap in ways that make things click better. With accounting and business especially, you start to see how everything connects instead of just being separate topics.

For example, accounting isn’t just numbers, it ties into real-world decision making, budgeting, and how businesses actually run. Then business classes build on that, so it all starts to come together.

I think this kind of learning is important because it makes everything feel more useful instead of just memorizing things for a test. It also helps you feel more prepared for a real job, since in real life everything is connected.

One example I would add is how work experience fits into this too. Working in a restaurant has taught me a lot about communication, time management, and problem solving, and those skills connect directly to what I’m learning in school. So it’s not just classes connecting to each other, but also connecting to real life.

# data[].attributes.body
Integrative learning involves connecting ideas across different subjects and applying them to real-world situations. In these kinds of courses, students might combine knowledge from multiple disciplines, work on real-life problems, and reflect on how their learning connects. This approach helps build critical thinking and shows that knowledge isn’t separate but interconnected.

Even in courses I haven’t taken yet, like environmental studies, integrative learning would be useful because solving problems often requires multiple perspectives. Overall, it helps move beyond memorization and encourages using knowledge in meaningful, practical ways.

# data[].attributes.headline
Amber Sugita - Why Do I Have to Take This Course? Discussion 6.1

# data[].attributes.subject
Amber Sugita - Why Do I Have to Take This Course? Discussion 6.1

# data[].attributes.body
The Integrative Learning section is actually in progress for me right now. This course, plus another historical course that I plan to take in the summer will be fulfilling this topic. I do see how the examples given in the discussion apply to Integrative Learning, especially with climate change where base knowledge must be applied and changed in a multitude of scenarios. I have actually had to do this at my own job, such as my knowledge with SAP needing to be changed due to updates. It promotes a way to continuously learn, which is what the entire idea of academics are in the first place.

# data[].attributes.body
In recent years I have been hearing about “integrative learning” more and more on campus. Upon further review of my academic work as an undergraduate, I realize that I have been engaging in integrative learning frequently throughout my college career. This type of learning often occurs when we have to combine skills from classes. When we are writing a research paper or working on an art history project, we are learning more than just write. We are learning information literacy, the ability to critically think, and understand the historical context of art to create a solid argument. Therefore, integrative learning is learning that links knowledge across several disciplines in order to solve complex problems. In addition, I see elements of high-impact practices occurring in assignment work throughout my academic career. For example, I see high-impact practices as assignments that require us to be engaged for long periods of time, to be critical and to apply our learning in a creative way. For example, I had to create a video review of a book, which took me long periods of time and required me to think critically and creatively in order to create something engaging for an audience. Another example of a high-impact practice is my major research papers. They require me to participate actively in the learning process. High impact practices are about engaging students in a unique way to learn new facts and concepts while participating actively in their learning. Therefore, I learn new things while actively participating. When learning new material, I also learn that the material from other classes is needed to fully understand concepts and theories. Therefore, I have to apply knowledge gained from other classes to help me fully understand content of classes. I would like to experience more integrative learning. If I did, I believe that I would see more internship opportunities, more group projects and more community-based projects where I could apply the knowledge across disciplines that I have learned in college.

# data[].attributes.body
I think integrative learning shows up in a lot of the classes we take even if we don’t really think about it at first. In some of my business classes we have to use things we learned in other courses like economics, accounting, and statistics to understand different problems. For example, when looking at how a business is doing, you might need to understand financial statements from accounting, market trends from economics, and data analysis from statistics. All of those subjects connect even though they are taught in separate classes. I think that is what integrative learning is really about. It helps you see how different areas of knowledge work together instead of thinking about each class as completely separate.

# data[].attributes.body
Business Policy and Strategy was a course where we had to take courses we learned previously to apply the skillsets to understand the policy making processes for organizations. These skills also helped me learn how to develop business strategies as well. I guess that is why most courses have prerequisites. It really is amazing to me how these courses are designed to build off each other. I always had the mindset of just taking courses in whatever order you want but I realized there is a method to the madness. Once you get to these 400 level courses, the expectation is that you come into the course with the knowledge to be able to be successful in the course. This course, specifically, was designed to take skillsets learned in 2 or 3 previous courses and apply them to the concepts being taught.

# data[].attributes.body
Integrative learning is linking ideas from different classes or experiences to real-life situations. For example, in my OCED class on meeting the needs of students with disabilities, I hold on to my knowledge of teaching methods, psychology, and classroom management. This helps me combine theory with practice, which is what integrative learning is all about. This method shows that school subjects are connected, not separate. For example, learning about learning differences in one class and communication strategies in another makes more sense when I use both in real classrooms. Working with students or in groups helps me see how integrative learning combines different ideas to solve real problems. I believe integrative learning is about making connections and seeing the bigger picture.

# data[].attributes.body
6.1. Aside from the course I am currently taking, I have not taken a class like this, I think taking a history class of a certain area, like Italy for example, IN the that country would be count for this class. This would mix learning the language with the curriculum and really give a fuller experience than just taking the class here.

# data[].attributes.headline
Why Do I Have to Take This Course?, Discussion 6.1, Brian Holmes

# data[].attributes.subject
Why Do I Have to Take This Course?, Discussion 6.1, Brian Holmes

# data[].attributes.body
I have taken a course that emphasizes Integrative Learning and it was called "Principled Entrepreneurship". During this class we had one assignment for the entire semester and it was to create a business plan. So for this class and assignment in particular I had to take lessons and ideas that I had learned from the outside world and from other classes and implement those. The biggest recourse that helped me with this project was my brother. He has a business of his own and I was able to pick his brain about ideas and lessons he has learned throughout his journey of being a business owner. This is a great example of integrative learning being emphasized in a course I have taken because I took an outside resource and applied it. I was fortunate to have this recourse so close but I will also add that their is helpful resources all over the internet that can be used to help in situations such as these.

# data[].attributes.body
Personal Wellness

Personal wellness is an important subject to have as a focus for any course. It is how we decide to take care of ourselves so we can ultimately be the best version of ourselves. In my first year of Salem State I took a course called the first year seminar, and within that course, I learned a lot of things. It was a great introduction into college. As simple as the seminar was, it taught me that less is more. Certain things like professional emailing and having an agenda, helped me map out how I wanted to handle life, school, and any extracurriculars that I wanted to do. Being able to decide what you’re going to do for the next 24 hours is great for your personal health because it gives you a sense of what to expect. Students put certain assignments into portions and that allows us to complete what we’re capable of.

Diverse Perspectives

As a business major, I believe it is very important to develop diverse perspectives because viewing situations from all angles allows us to have better answers to those situations. It allows us as students to develop a knack for listening to others and viewing where they are coming from. We are from all different walks of life and have been put in many different situations, so allowing others to impact us in such a way creates versatility between each other.

In my freshman year at Salem State I took a course called media and race and the primary focus was diverse perspectives. The key takeaways from that class for me was positionality, and understanding that everyone's background directly affects how they may answer a problem. That’s a lifelong skill to comprehend because like I mentioned prior we all come from different walks of life and the things we see and go through determine how we handle certain situations. Another thing that I really appreciate from this course was developing my ability of civil discourse. It is important to talk about sensitive topics because they are often the elephant in the room. Being able to address things even if you don’t completely agree with another party, but being able to communicate and being understanding is very important. No one person is the same. Having differences of opinion is very common in our life, being able to talk about why we have different opinions and why you may feel a certain way without being hostile can further and progress relationships.

# data[].attributes.body
In the personal wellness category, I took nutrition. It was a part of my culinary arts degree requirement. I found it to be very scientific, but also very interesting. I learned information about the food we consume. I also learned about calories and nutrients and how they affect the body and our overall health.

For Diverse perspectives and History Analysis, I took Food & Culture. This was my favorite class that I took while earning my associates degree. This class took a deep dive into the history of food around the world. It also taught us about how geography, religion and culture affect ingredients, cooking styles and techniques.

Scientific Inquiry and Analysis would be the category that I took a lot of culinary classes in. I took multiple food labs from baking and pastry to international cuisine.

I have not taken college classes in the following areas, but here are some thoughts on what they are about.

Civic learning teaches how government and communities work. It helps students understand their rights, responsibilities, and how people can take part in society.
Ethical reasoning teaches students how to make fair and responsible decisions.
Literacy inquiry focuses on reading and understanding. Students learn how to think about what they read and form their own ideas.
Fine arts classes explore creativity through things like art, music or theater. Students learn how people express ideas and emotions through art.

# data[].attributes.headline
Nik Kedian, Why Do I have to Take this Course?, Discussion 5.1-5.9(all in one post)

# data[].attributes.subject
Nik Kedian, Why Do I have to Take this Course?, Discussion 5.1-5.9(all in one post)

# data[].attributes.body
I have taken several courses that have touched upon some of these subjects throughout my educational journey. Civic Learning to me is the ability to gather information to better self-develop and expand my horizons as a growing professional and parent on rights and responsibilities.

Civic Learning/Personal Wellness - I would relate my public speaking/communications course I completed during my Associate’s degree. In my public communications course there was such an importance on being able to properly present ideas, evaluate opinions, think on your feet, and be able to pivot when necessary. These skills are essential to any being's daily life. One key attribute that I learned early on in this course is the importance of being able to contribute to a conversation in a positive disciplined manner. This is to communicate effectively and participate responsibly in any conversation.

Ethical Reasoning/Diverse Perspectives - Last semester I took a philosophy course that truly challenged every belief that I “believed” I had. This course challenged me to think critically without my own parameters. The end goal of this course was to better understand that each person may have a different perspective or course of action on a particular topic. As a part of the final assessment, we had to “argue” our case of what something meant to us, and I found this assignment so intriguing as it opened me up to how another one of my classmates interpreted the same text. I enjoyed this as it was a great reflective practice.

These are just two of many examples of why Civic Learning is important in society.

In continuation, Civic learning is of continual development of all people.

# data[].attributes.body
Looking across the different areas of learning civic engagement, diverse perspectives, ethical reasoning, the arts, inquiry-based disciplines, and personal wellness I realized how often these themes overlap in my coursework, even when they are not the stated focus of a class. Each area asks something slightly different of me as a learner, but together they shape a more complete understanding of how knowledge connects to everyday life. When i think about what I have been asked to do in my classes, many assignments required not just memorizing content but applying ideas, analyzing examples, and reflecting on my own assumptions.

For example, courses centered on diverse perspectives and ethical reasoning often push me to examine how my background influences the way I interpret information. Discussions about fairness, responsibility, or cultural context show up in everything from business case studies to literature. These moments remind me that ethical thinking is not limited to philosophy it is part of decision making in any field.

Similarly, procedural and logical thinking connects strongly to the work i have done in the economics and finance. Learning to break down problems, evaluate evidence, and follow a structured process helps me approach complex scenarios with more confidence. at the same time, scientific inquiry and historical analysis encourage me to ask where information comes from, how it was produced, and what assumptions shape the conclusions. These skills make me a more careful reader and a more intentional writer.

Even areas like fine arts expression and personal wellness, which might seem separate from academic analysis, play an important role. Creative work teaches flexibility and interpretation, while wellness-focused courses remind me that learning is most meaningful when i am balanced and attentive to my own needs. Both areas help me understand myself better, which strengthens my ability to engage with challenging material.

If I were to take courses in areas I haven't explored yet, I imagine the same themes would apply. Each subject offers a different lens, but the underlying skills critical thinking, empathy, analysis, and reflection carry across disciplines. I would add that the most valuable learning often happens when these areas intersect, showing how academic ideas connect to real-world questions about community, identity, and responsibility.

# data[].attributes.body
In civic learning courses I learned about the individual’s role in society and the political system, as well as the citizen’s role in the democratic process. Assignments would often involve learning about civil rights movements and the roles that citizens play in a democracy. In diverse perspectives and historical inquiry courses, like art history and history classes, I learned to look at events, art and social issues from various viewpoints. It’s amazing how culture, the time period in which something was created, and the social class and gender of the artist or person behind the work can change the way that it is viewed by others. Understanding the context in which something is created is key to understanding the history of a subject as well as the societal attitudes and values of a particular time and place.

In discussions about ethics, I tried to consider the consequences of actions and think critically through moral dilems, realizations that carry over to many aspects of life. Courses in Fine arts expression and analysis required me to be very aware of fine art and to be able to identify elements such as symbolism and the way in which the artist portrays its ideas through the visual elements used. Literary inquiry and analysis also requires a great deal of awareness and thought of literature and its themes as well as having to identify deeper meanings within the text of a novel and analyzing it.

Health and Wellness classes concentrated on learning about different aspects of health and fitness and how our personal choices impact our overall health. The procedural and logical types of reasoning I was taught in math and statistics classes focused on problem solving by breaking down very structured steps to reach a correct answer while using logical thinking. Scientific inquiry and analysis is all about collecting evidence for your ideas, creating hypotheses based on that information and finally analyzing your findings. The core idea is that the General Education classes at MSU teach students to learn different skills that are closely tied to each other – critical thinking, analysis, communication and problem solving. These skills are also relevant in many other places and situations.

# data[].attributes.headline
Amber Sugita - Why Do I Have to Take This Course?, Discussion 5.1-5.9

# data[].attributes.subject
Amber Sugita - Why Do I Have to Take This Course?, Discussion 5.1-5.9

# data[].attributes.body
Civic Learning: I am in the process of completing a course with this specific focus. From what I have seen so far with how the course is meant to help me, it really helps with deciphering misinformation and overall problem-solving with information literacy. It has taught me how to scrutinize the information I take in, how the world is constantly evolving, and how to adapt these skills to this ever-evolving environment. On top of this, past mistakes are brought up, which helps me avoid going down the same path again in my personal and civic life.

Diverse Perspectives: I have seen that a lot of my courses as a Business major go into diverse perspectives. This is because I must be able to speak and connect with a multitude of people while in a position of management. This is where I have seen a lot of managers fail, where they cannot connect to some of their employees and thus neglect their needs in the process. Diversity of race, ethnic background, sexual orientation, religion, geographical differences, and so much more needs to be taken into account. It is more than likely why this must be a requirement.

Ethical Reasoning: This requirement is also met by my major, and is seen in a lot of my courses as well. Ethical reasoning goes more into deciphering what is right and wrong. It builds character, moral, and ethical values meant for daily life. A good example of this is artificial intelligence in businesses. While it can be useful, we must be able to ethically choose whether AI is well-suited for a job or if a human should do it for the most authentic experience. Without this, work done by businesses could be seen as illegitimate, or perhaps even illegal. That is why there are laws catered to AI in the workplace.

Fine Arts Expression and Analysis: I have taken a course in fine arts. It is another way in which we communicate: the communication through a multitude of art expressions. The course I had taken allowed me to appreciate the diverse range of art, and how it can be analyzed to inherently figure out an artists' meaning behind their piece. In a way, I was also able to express myself through the understanding of their art. A great example of this topic in action would have to be in museums. We are not just there to admire art, but feel connected through it as well.

Historical Inquiry and Analysis: This is a requirement I have already completed as well. Historical information is pertinent to how we continue to adapt and change, for better or for worse. Scrutinizing evidence provided to us allows us to continue to avoid past mistakes, while also forming our own opinions of what may be true or not. More so, it goes into what is trustworthy or not. Historical evidence can also be seen in business in the way businesses have functioned correctly or gone under from their mistakes. Taking any kind of evidence of success or downfall and analyzing it is what this topic is all about.

Literary Inquiry and Analysis: Similarly to historical analysis, literary analysis requires the ability to evaluate and interpret complex texts. It is another form of communication, and allows us to uncover deeper meanings and engage with our surroundings in a critical light. While I have not completed this requirement yet, I can see why it is necessary, especially for my major. Business requires reading, being able to not only interpret numbers, but also written reports as well. As a manager, I must be able to pick apart what my employees write for me and to be able to generate an overarching report for my own supervisors of what is needed and what has been done.

Personal Wellness: While everything so far has been major-related in some way, personal wellness diverts from what I would classify as major-related topics. This is meant to educate me on how to care for myself better, which I personally struggle with as is. I have not completed this requirement, but I will soon. Staying healthy and fit is something that is necessary for personal lives. Being able to decompress will improve physical and mental health. I do hope that this course I will be taking will help me in my weight loss journey by being educated on health and fitness.

Procedural and Logical Thinking: This requirement was fulfilled at a different university under Chemistry. Chemistry is very logical and systematic, but it teaches us to also be able to adapt the same skills learned for a different result. While I am no longer a STEM major, I can still use what I learned in this course to be able to apply it to my work life. Some aspects of management can be systematic, such as procedures I must follow when employees break their own provided procedures, in the case of an emergency, etc. Adapting what I know from this set of rules is the logical path.

Scientific Inquiry and Analysis: Finally, this requirement was also fulfilled in a different university under a Biological Sciences course. We must also be able to navigate our natural world and validate the knowledge provided to us. Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data is a big part of this requirement. Once again, analytical thinking is necessary as a business major, as I will be getting a lot of data about consumer information. What consumers need is an integral part of improving within a market, and can also be seen as a way to interact and adapt to the world around us.

# data[].attributes.body
Throughout school I have taken several classes that connect to these areas in different ways. In many of these courses, the main goal was to help students think more critical about the world and understand how different ideas affect society. A lot of the time we were asked to look at real issues, read different viewpoints, and talk about how people’s choices can impact others and the future.

These kinds of classes also focus on building skills like forming strong arguments, evaluating whether information is reliable, and being able to clearly explain your thoughts. I think they are useful because they teach you how to think through problems instead of just memorizing information. They also encourage students to consider perspectives that might be different from their own.

Overall, courses like these help prepare students not just for other classes, but also for real life. They help you become more aware of what is going on in the world and how your actions and decisions can affect other people and your community.

# data[].attributes.body
When I look at the categories listed, I realize I’ve actually taken several courses that connect to them. For civic learning, I would say some of my business classes fit into that area because they talk about how businesses interact with society, regulations, and ethical decision making. For diverse perspectives, my Introduction to Sociology class definitely focused on understanding different cultures, social groups, and viewpoints, which helped me see how people experience society differently.

For fine arts expression and analysis, the closest class I took was The History of Rock ‘n’ Roll. That class looked at music as a form of cultural expression and explored how different artists and time periods influenced society. Literary inquiry and analysis clearly applies to English 101 and 102, where we analyzed texts, wrote essays, and practiced critical thinking about what we read.

Some of the other categories, like scientific inquiry or personal wellness, aren’t classes I’ve personally taken yet. However, I can see how those areas would still be valuable because they help students think critically, understand research, and learn skills that apply outside their specific major. Overall, these types of courses are meant to give students a broader education and help connect ideas across different subjects.

Another category I would add to this discussion is financial literacy. Many students graduate without a strong understanding of budgeting, taxes, credit, or loans, even though those things affect everyday life. A course focused on financial literacy could help students make better financial decisions and prepare for life after college. I also think communication skills could be another important category, since being able to clearly express ideas, write professionally, and work with others is valuable in almost any career.

# data[].attributes.body
This Course clearly explains why general education requirements such as Civic Learning, Diverse Perspectives, Ethical Reasoning, Fine Arts and Historical Inquiry are much more than simple requirements. Courses like this  prepares me to become thoughtful and make me a more engaged citizen and a professional in a complex world.Civic Learning develops my skills for democratic participation. It helps me to understand misinformation and take principled actions for justice as shown in examples from suffrage activism and affirmative action debates. Diverse Perspectives encourages empathy and open mindedness by examining different cultural frameworks such as the community acceptance of mental health in Geel or the fight for LGBTQ plus rights. This approach helps me to navigate through diversity and challenge prejudice. Ethical Reasoning improves moral decision making in situations involving artificial intelligence biases, protest ethics or daily choices. These skills connect directly to civic action and social responsibility. Meanwhile, Fine Arts cultivates creativity and cultural understanding through expression and analysis. It preserves histories as seen in griot traditions and supports social movements through protest art. Additionally, Historical Inquiry teaches how to evaluate evidence and understand context. It reveals how past events including the misuse of medieval symbols in modern extremism or the removal of statues influence current issues and guide better decisions.These courses are not academic obstacles but rather they build transferable skills including critical thinking, empathy, ethical judgment and collaboration. These skills improve careers, personal growth and the ability to address inequality, climate challenges and social division. In a polarized time like now, general education courses equip students like me in a manner that enables me to contribute meaningfully to the society and not merely survive.

# data[].attributes.body
If I took a fine arts class, this type of course would ask students to both create artistic work and critically examine existing works of art. In such a class, I might be required to analyze paintings, films, music, or theatrical performances by identifying elements such as color, lighting, composition, symbolism, rhythm, or tone. The goal would not just be to describe what I see or hear, but to interpret the deeper meaning and explain how artistic choices communicate emotions or messages.

I would also likely complete creative projects, such as producing a drawing, digital design, short performance, or written reflection on an artwork. Through these assignments, I would learn how artistic expression involves both imagination and intentional decision-making. Every choice—such as color selection, camera angle, or musical tempo—contributes to the overall impact of the piece. This process teaches problem-solving and attention to detail, as well as how to accept and apply constructive feedback.

The ideas discussed in other learning areas could also apply within a fine arts course. For example, understanding diverse cultural perspectives would help when studying art from different regions or time periods. Ethical reasoning might come into play when discussing controversial artwork or freedom of expression. Historical context would be important for understanding why certain artistic movements developed and what social issues they reflected.

If I were to add another idea to the discussion, I would emphasize the importance of communication skills. Fine arts courses strengthen the ability to clearly explain interpretations and support opinions with evidence from the artwork. Overall, Fine Arts Expression and Analysis develops creativity, critical thinking, cultural awareness, and effective communication—skills that are valuable in many academic and professional settings.

# data[].attributes.headline
Why Do I Have to Take This Course? Discussion 5.1-5.9, Brian Holmes

# data[].attributes.subject
Why Do I Have to Take This Course? Discussion 5.1-5.9, Brian Holmes

# data[].attributes.body
I have taken several courses throughout my schooling that have touched on these categories. Some of the types of questions that are usually asked in these courses are figuring out if something is true/reliable, how can your current choices effect your future self, what does an individual need to do in order to contribute to society, and how to form a strong, concrete argument are all common questions that are asked in these types of courses. You tend to learn lessons such as how to think critically about certain topics and come to your own understanding and conclusion, read a certain work and be able to clearly state the argument and be able to break down the topics given, create habits that can and will maximize your wellbeing. These courses are generally created in order to prepare students for their future, for more challenging courses, and eventually for life as a whole.

# data[].attributes.body
I noticed that many of my past and current classes relate to these ideas in different ways. Each course covered its own topic, but all of them helped me build skills that go beyond just memorizing facts. In my writing classes, I worked on analyzing literature and thinking about ethical questions. I learned to back up my arguments with evidence, consider different viewpoints, and share my ideas clearly. These assignments often made me reflect and think critically, showing me how language can shape how we see things. My sociology and psychology classes really connected to learning about different perspectives and civic issues. They helped me see how culture, social systems, and human behavior shape people's lives. I learned to look at social problems from many angles and to think more deeply about how people interact in society. History classes focused heavily on analyzing events and their causes, not just memorizing dates. I learned to look at the reasons behind events and their impact. This helped me understand how choices made in the past still mold our world today and why knowing history matters for being an informed citizen. I developed logical thinking skills. Statistics especially showed me how data can be used to support decisions in business and real-world situations. In my science classes, we focused on conducting experiments, making observations, and evaluating evidence. I learned how to test ideas and that conclusions need to be backed up by data, not just opinions. World music ties into fine arts because it shows how music reflects culture and history. This class helped me see how art lets people share their identity and values with others around the world. Personal wellness came up in several classes, especially when we discussed mental health, stress management, and maintaining a healthy balance. These are important skills for school and life in general. Overall, these classes taught me that learning is all connected. Skills such as critical thinking, communication, and understanding different viewpoints are useful across subjects and help address real-world problems. I also think working together and talking things through are important, since many assignments involve teamwork and discussion, which helps everyone learn more.

# data[].attributes.body
Throughout my time as a business administration major there have been many classes I have taken that have different purposes/focuses. Especially the things listed in the prompt including Information Literacy, Quantitative reasoning, Reading, Speaking/Listening, and Writing. Some of the courses that I have taken focus on some of these topics more than others, through this discussion I will dissect which classes focus directly on some of these topics. A course that focused on information literacy was a class I took freshman year and that was “Intro to Business”. Being able to read and comprehend the data that was given to us was an important factor in completing the course material. As well as, being able to find good sources/references and making sure that those references are credible, that is another example of how information literacy is used in Intro to Business. Speaking and listening was another skill that was gained in the middle of my freshman year, with the course intro to speech. With that class I was able to not just speak, but be prepared to speak in crowds, and have a purpose while also being clear when expressing my thoughts. Listening was also an important aspect of the course as we had to listen to others in order to understand what they were trying to teach us. Lastly, business statistics has taught me how to use quantitative reasoning efficiently. Being able to use mathematics to predict certain outcomes/ determining certain trends is the epitome of quantitative reasoning. Business Statistics mixes the idea of logic and numbers in order to solve problems, it’s an important skill to have because these concepts are common in business culture, especially Microsoft Excel.

# data[].attributes.body
5.1. I took History, world civilization II at Mount Wachusett Community College. This class taught me about mistakes that were made in the past, and the consequences that resulted from them. It taught me about different cultures and communities throughout history as well. There were also discussions about the reliability of first-hand accounts, and how history is often written by the winner and must therefore be scrutinized. It also displayed actions that the public has taken and the results, giving me ideas on how to make my voice heard.

5.2. I have taken a few courses that included diverse perspectives. The two that best fit are marketing and international marketing. It is unfortunate that it was in effort to market to a diverse population, but all perspectives need to be considered when marketing a product to reach the maximum number of consumers effectively. While trying to find effective ways to market to different cultures, religions, ages, and sexual orientation, I ended up doing a lot of research on those cultures, religions, ages, and sexual orientation, gaining a diverse perspective. As for topics I would add I cannot think of any. This section expresses the extreme importance of maintaining a diverse perspective. I am unable to experience the world any differently than I experience it. Listening to others is the only why I will ever learn what needs to change.

5.3. I took a class called Business ethics at Mount Wachusett Community College. This class was focused on the business side of ethics, but it gave a overall idea of what ethics means. I remember they had a few questions to tell if something was ethical. “Would you do it if someone was watching you?” and “If everyone did it, would it cause harm?” These questions do a good job giving insight into the ethics of actions. If everyone took private jets around the world, would it cause global harm? I f everyone used water irresponsibly, would it cause harm? If everyone cannot do it, then it may be unethical. It also covered what to do when something was unethical.

5.4. I took Drawing at Mount Wachusett Community College. Not only did we draw with different mediums in the class, but we learned about artists and different techniques. Taking this class refined my ability to view art and appreciate more subtle aspects including, brushstrokes, contrast and style. We also expressed ourselves when we drew our own pictures, My favorite medium was Charcoal.

5.5. I Think that History World Civilization II also works for this category. This class covered many different civilizations, how they started and how they ended. We looked at first hand sources and second-hand sources, and had to parse the information given to us.

5.6. I touched on this class before but Short Stories was very much in line with literary inquiry and analysis. This class was focused on going deeper into the meaning of the short stories and finding the human experiences hiding underneath.

5.7. I took Physical Education at Mount Wachusett Community College. In this class they stressed the importance of physical health, but also stressed emotional and mental health. Exercise can be good for the body and the mind, but meditation and relaxation were stressed as well.

5.8. I took Managerial Accounting at Mount Wachusett Community College. In this class we learned about following the proper procedures for entering accounting records into the general ledger and how to create the end of year reports. For some assignments, we were given some information and had to work logically backwards to find the missing info, which we could then fill in and work forwards to get all the information we needed. Thiws took logic and the proper following of procedures to accomplish.

5.9. I took Sociology at Mount Wachusett Community College. This class focused on the science of people. This class made us look at the world and see patterns big and small. We analyzed neighborhood behavior, state behavior, and global behavior patterns of humans.

# data[].attributes.body
I recently took a course in Human Resources management. My thinking was challenged in a handful of ways. Specifically, The value in DEI in the workplace. For the longest time, I had the understanding that this initiative was strictly based on appearance. I am assuming this was the societal norm, anyway. As I reviewed the historical context and the differences in perspectives from those who come from different backgrounds, I understood the value in DEI. As a black man, I was always told to tell employers or colleges that I was black and that would give me an advantage to get ahead. I had the mindset that I wanted my merit to speak for me. but after taking this course, I realize that DEI is minimally about race, gender, and religion, (on the surface, anyway) and it was more about what my upbringing and my experiences could bring to the table. Although Human Resources Management is a course with a focus on business, I feel it was more closely linked to General education because the concepts I derived from the course helped me get a better understanding on things that can apply in a wide variety of careers. I think if more students had a course like this they, too, would understand the reasoning and value that comes with DEI. I feel like mainstream media writes the narrative on these topics and creates a false narrative.

# data[].attributes.body
When completing my associates degree I completed a course in each of these categories.

One of my favorite courses I took was Public Speaking. This course required me to think critically and consciously about what we were discussing and advocating about or for. It also integrated some key skills learned in reading and writing courses. In my career of Hospitality I use the skills learned daily. The one bias to public speaking, more content specific is perspective. Perspective is both a massive pro and con of any industry. However, in the service industry we practice "silent service". This is where, we are not meant to listen in on guests private conversations. Minus the argument of imagining everyone in their underwear when public speaking, that theory just made me chuckle. Furthermore, the skills learned are so transferrable and are used when I'm speaking with potential clients or students of mine.

In my quantitative reasoning courses information reasoning was a key part of the class. The instructor I had structured the content to be focused on what was happening in or around the world/economy around us. This increased my want to know more and more importantly to understand the theories and concepts that were being discussed.

With information literacy, one thing I would add is the importance on perception is most peoples reality. In the "new" world of TikTok and reels I see more-so how we can educate the upcoming generations on being present and focusing on the facts and truths of the matter.

# data[].attributes.body
As a Business Administration major, I can see how each of these focus areas connects directly to both my academic success and future career.

Information Literacy is extremely important in business. In courses like Intro to Business or Marketing, I’ve had to research companies, analyze market trends, and evaluate sources for credibility. I learned how to distinguish between reliable data and biased information, which is essential when making business decisions. In today’s world of social media and online news, being able to verify information is a critical skill.

Quantitative Reasoning plays a major role in business. In math, accounting, or finance-related courses, I’ve used numbers to interpret data, calculate profits and losses, and analyze performance metrics. Understanding statistics and financial data helps with budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning. These skills are not only academic they are directly tied to running or managing a successful organization.

Reading is also key. In many of my courses, I’ve had to read case studies, textbook chapters, and articles about business strategies and leadership. Reading helps me understand different management styles, economic trends, and ethical dilemmas. It improves my ability to analyze situations before making decisions.

Speaking and Listening are crucial in business environments. Through presentations and group projects, I’ve practiced explaining ideas clearly and listening to others’ perspectives. In business, communication affects teamwork, negotiations, and customer relationships. Being able to actively listen is just as important as speaking confidently.

Writing is another foundational skill. Business communication requires clear emails, reports, proposals, and professional documents. In my classes, writing assignments have helped me organize my thoughts, present arguments logically, and support ideas with evidence. Strong writing makes communication more effective and professional.

Overall, these general education skills are not separate from my major they support it. They help me think critically, communicate effectively, and make informed decisions. Even outside of business, these skills are necessary for everyday life, whether managing personal finances, evaluating news, or interacting with others in professional settings.

# data[].attributes.body
In English Composition I and II, I learned how to write clear, organized essays with strong thesis statements, supported evidence, and proper citations. These classes helped me improve my research skills and ability to communicate ideas effectively in writing. They also taught me to use language that will engage the reader by using a variety of words instead of repeating common words and to have each paragraph clear and to the point.

I am currently taking Math for the Vocational Learner.  I use quantitative reasoning skills by applying percentages, using multiple types of measurements, budgeting, and basic problem-solving that relate to real-life and CTE shop situations.

Public Speaking helped me gain confidence, organize presentations, and communicate clearly to different audiences. This is something I am still working on improving. It has taken time and practice to improve, even after being aware of some of the public speaking elements that I struggle with. For instance monotone voice, under or overusing hands while speaking and blanking out when I get nervous are things I struggle with. I noticed I was saying “um or “you know” in my video assignment, too. The public speaking class was great because most people were feeling some of the same insecurities, therefore, were supportive listeners.

Although I have not taken a reading or information literacy course, I have practiced critical reading, evaluating credible sources and sources from different perspectives, and using research responsibly through my writing assignments.

# data[].attributes.body
Reflecting on my coursework, I have realized how much the five foundational skill areas information literacy, quantitative reasoning, reading, speaking and listening, and writing shape the way I learn across disciplines. Information literacy has been central in helping me evaluate sources, understand credibility, and use evidence responsibly. Courses that required research taught me how to navigate databases, question assumptions, and build arguments grounded in reliable information. Quantitative reasoning has shown up in classes involving data, formulas, or financial analysis. Even when the math wasn't advanced, these assignments strengthened my ability to interpret numerical information and apply it to real-world decisions. This skill has been especially useful in business and finance, where understanding trends and evaluating outcomes is essential.

Reading-focused courses pushed me to move beyond surface-level comprehension. Close reading, annotation, and analyzing an author's purpose helped me develop patience and deeper engagement with complex texts. These habits carry over into every subject, especially when working with dense academic articles. Speaking and listening skills developed through presentations, group discussions, and collaborative projects. These experiences taught me how to communicate clearly, respond thoughtfully, and engage with different perspectives. Listening actively has been just as important as speaking, especially in settings where understanding others' viewpoints strengthens the overall discussion.

Writing has been a constant thread throughput my education. Writing-intensive courses helped me organize my thoughts, support claims with evidence, and adapt my tone depending on the audience. Whether drafting essays, reports, or discussion posts, writing has become a tool for clarifying my thinking. EDven if someone hasn't taken a dedicated course in each area, these skills appear across many subjects. Together, they create a foundation that supports academic success and prepares students for real-world problem-solving and communication.

# data[].attributes.body
Throughout my coursework, I’ve developed skills in Information Literacy, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading, Speaking and Listening, and Writing, and I’ve learned how interconnected they are.

In research-based classes, Information Literacy helped me evaluate credible sources, identify bias, and properly cite evidence. Quantitative Reasoning strengthened my ability to interpret data, graphs, and statistics, which improved both problem-solving and decision-making. Reading courses taught me to analyze texts critically, identify main ideas, and look beyond surface meaning.

Speaking and Listening skills developed through presentations and group discussions, where I learned to communicate clearly and actively engage with others’ ideas. Writing-intensive courses emphasized organizing arguments, supporting claims with evidence, and revising drafts to improve clarity.

Overall, these skills all build on critical thinking. Together, they prepare me not only for academic success but also for professional and everyday situations where clear communication and informed decision-making are essential.

# data[].attributes.headline
Amber Sugita - Why Do I Have to Take This Course? Discussion 4.1-4.5

# data[].attributes.subject
Amber Sugita - Why Do I Have to Take This Course? Discussion 4.1-4.5

# data[].attributes.body
Information Literacy - I have taken a course on information literacy back when I first went to college. It was known as Humanities Core at the time, and essentially helped me in evaluating information I find and then using such information in a responsible and academic way. This included helping me distinguish scholarly vs popular sources, and overall help me be able to utilize the information I gain to write papers on topics pertaining to the Medieval era and more. To be fair, I did think these courses were silly at first. However, now going into the humanities in this go-around of higher education made me realize why a large amount of universities require these types of courses.

Quantitative Reasoning - I have not actually taken a quantitative reasoning course yet but I can see why it is a requirement. Every single day, data has to be analyzed, and while it is usually mathematical, it is not always the case. Quantitative reasoning can help beyond the math part, but it is usually done in a math setting. It fosters critical thinking based on facts, and helps with informed decisions. An example is that I am a business major, I will have to analyze data trends and performance in order to make decisions about how to carry the hypothetical department I manage to higher successes.

Reading - My experience with a reading course was actually last semester in College Learning Foundations. There was a lot of reading, but in fact for good reason. Reading also kickstarts critical thinking and eventually leads us to question our surroundings as well based on information. In other words: reading leads to information literacy and is the method to gaining said information so it can be used correctly. The benefit that stood out the most was that reading can enhance concentration/focus. I want to try it out again and see if I can be more focused while reading, but will I be actively aware of this? Who knows! That is the wonder of learning in the first place, some things becoming second nature to where you may not actively notice it.

Speaking and Listening - Immediately going into speaking and listening is the idea that perspectives can be arranged in a spoken language, something much more personal than writing. I am taking a course right now to fulfill this requirement, ASL 1000. Being able to speak and listen is a surefire way to have proper communication, something that all types of careers and majors need. As an example, in business, communication is key. Learning different languages in order to be able to communicate fulfills on being able to speak and listen to others, to be able to gain perspectives you might not have understood at first.

Writing - Finally, writing is something I have also fulfilled through my Humanities Core courses back in my first time in college. Writing is a well-rounded concept, a necessity for a multitude of paths. It is also another way we are able to communicate. As a business major and someone who works in warehousing, I have to send emails every single day. Who would read my emails if I could not articulate my words properly, or better yet, did not know how to proofread what I had written? In all honesty, this course I had done pushed me to put hard work into my writing skills. While I may not be the best, I am still seeing improvements from this highly foundational course.

# data[].attributes.body
In the class focused on information literacy, the instructor assigned several tasks, which included finding peer reviewed articles, assessing the credibility of web sites, identifying whether web sites were scholarly or popular, and using proper citations when using source material for arguments. The class learned that research is about more than just finding sources on a topic; it involves understanding the role of the author, sources of potential bias, the publication process, and the motivations of the author. The reading connected information literacy to the modern world of misinformation, and I could see first hand how poor sources can undermine a good argument. I would also add digital literacy to this list; being able to understand how algorithms work and understand the framing of media can help people to make more informed decisions.

In quantitative reasoning classes, I had to interpret data, read and understand graphs, probability distributions and apply mathematical formulas to solve problems in a real world context. I have come to understand that numbers are a way of telling a story but it is very important to know the context and also be aware of the underlying assumptions and the limitations of the data. Quantitative reasoning is not about arithmetic or even doing calculations – it is about understanding whether the data is being presented in an accurate and sensible way. Another important skill that I have learned is statistical literacy. I have come to realize that in this age of information where we are constantly bombarded with news reports, medical studies and economic claims it is very important to have an understanding of statistical concepts and to be able to critically assess the validity of these claims.

In reading-focused classes in literature and history, the expectation has been that I would critique an author’s argument, recognize major themes, and evaluate the uses of various types of evidence. The best way to prepare for this type of task is to read slowly, think about a text, and ask appropriate questions. In addition, I believe that learning to read across different disciplines such as the scientific and literary is important. The different styles of writing in these texts require distinct approaches in understanding the material.

For speaking and listening I have not yet taken a cours, but I think it will involve presentation, group work and listening exercises. It appears from our reading that communication in speaking and listening involves being clear, selective and relevant and using particular strategies to interact with others. I would expect the module to cover areas such as presenting ideas orally and using different methods of communication to suit different situations as well as participating in discussions and responding appropriately to comments made by others. I also believe that the module will look at the aspect of listening to someone's point of view before we start to put together a counter argument. I would also like to see improvements in my public speaking and the ability to be more adaptable when communicating in different situations.

I have come to realize that one of the core aspects of the writing focused classes that I have taken was learning how to craft a legible thesis argument and build supporting points and evidence, all while learning how to effectively revise and edit a piece of work in order to produce something that is as clear and concise as possible. Writing allows one to be able to make sense of one’s thoughts and ideas and allows for an individual to be able to organize thoughts in a logical way, and to refine one’s ideas. When revising a piece of work I have found that I am able to recognize holes in an argument or logically inconsistent statements and this has caused me to think in new ways and to have to rethink my position and the points I am trying to make, which in itself is a valuable skill. Learning to write on different topics and in different forms, (for example writing a scientific report on the brain versus an argumentative essay that discusses the societal effects of lack of sleep) has allowed me to not only to understand the topic on a deeper level but has also increased my overall writing abilities.

These five areas are interconnected. Information Literacy is the foundation of successful writing. Quantitative Reasoning is the foundation of critical thinking. Reading and writing are the foundation of speaking and listening. In combination, these skills create a set of lifetime learning skills that transcend any number of courses in any discipline. They are essential for learning, thinking, communicating, and making intelligent evaluations in all aspects of academic, professional, and civic life.

# data[].attributes.body
When I first heard I needed to take this class, I didn’t really see the point, but after going through the different areas like information literacy, quantitative reasoning, reading, speaking and listening, and writing, I can see how they actually connect to real life and my major.

For accounting, quantitative reasoning is obviously huge. It’s not just about doing math, but understanding numbers and using them to make decisions, like budgeting, analyzing costs, or managing finances. That’s something I already use in my daily life, especially supporting my family.

Information literacy is also really important in accounting. You have to be able to look at financial information and know what’s accurate and what’s not. Not everything you see is reliable, so being able to evaluate sources matters.

Writing and communication are bigger than I expected too. In accounting, you’re not just working with numbers, you have to explain them clearly to other people. Being able to write and communicate well makes a big difference.

Overall, I think this course is about connecting all these skills together instead of seeing them as separate. One thing I would add is time management, because balancing school, work, and family is honestly one of the most important skills I’m learning right now.

# data[].attributes.body
I’ve taken classes that focused on Information Literacy, especially Business Information Systems and writing courses. In those classes, I had to research topics and make sure the information I was using was actually reliable. I learned how to tell the difference between scholarly sources and random online articles, and how bias can affect the way information is presented. One thing I realized is that just because something looks professional online doesn’t always mean it’s accurate.

The ideas from this chapter connect a lot to college work because we use information from the internet all the time. It’s important to question sources and check credibility before using or sharing information. These skills also apply outside of school, especially when looking at news or social media posts. With how fast information spreads today, being able to evaluate what is true or misleading is an important skill both academically and in everyday life.

# data[].attributes.headline
Bernard Mumuluh(Why do I have to take this course?4.1-4.5

# data[].attributes.subject
Bernard Mumuluh(Why do I have to take this course?4.1-4.5

# data[].attributes.body
I am taking this course because it helps in building the essential foundational skills I need across key areas which prepares me for success in academics, career, and life. It helps to develop my information literacy to be able to evaluate and use credible sources ethically amid misinformation; quantitative reasoning to interpret data, assess risks, and engage in informed civic decisions; advanced reading to critically analyze texts and media for deeper understanding; speaking and listening to communicate effectively, advocate, and connect across teams and cultures and lastly to be able to express ideas clearly through writing. As the final thought emphasizes, this course provides me and other students the core competencies that enables us to navigate complex personal, professional, and societal challenges beyond our respective majors.

# data[].attributes.headline
Brian Holmes, Why Do I have to take this course? Discussion 4.1-4.5

# data[].attributes.subject
Brian Holmes, Why Do I have to take this course? Discussion 4.1-4.5

# data[].attributes.body
I have taken classes that teach Information Literacy, Quantitative Reasoning, Reading, Speaking and Listening, and Writing. Each of these teach different skills and lessons. First, Information Literacy taught me lessons on how to find certain information and where to look for it, as well as how to know if it is good information. I have learned these skills but one of the main classes I took this information was through a spies, lies, and conspiracies class in high schools. I learned quantitative learning through my statistics math class my sophomore year of college. I learned to read and get better at reading throughout all of my classes during school. I learned speaking in my 4 years of Spanish and learned how to understand those who speak it as well. Multiple courses such as Rhetorics and Poetics, and Ethics have taught me how to effectively write and to be effective and passionate in my writing.

# data[].attributes.body
In my general education journey, I have taken courses in writing, math, history, sociology, psychology, world music, and personal finance, all of which have helped me develop skills in information literacy, quantitative reasoning, reading, speaking, listening, and writing. For example, in writing classes, I learned to research topics effectively, analyze sources critically, and communicate my ideas clearly, practicing both information literacy and written communication. In math and personal finance classes, I applied quantitative reasoning to solve problems, interpret data, and make informed budgeting and financial planning decisions. Courses like history, sociology, and psychology strengthened my reading and critical thinking skills by requiring me to evaluate multiple perspectives, interpret evidence, and build arguments in discussion. World Music and group projects in various classes helped me improve my speaking and listening skills by engaging in discussions, presentations, and collaborative evaluation of ideas. Beyond the classroom, I’ve seen how these skills play out in real-world situations: analyzing research studies, presenting results to others, and making informed decisions. These experiences highlight the practical value of general education in connecting knowledge across disciplines, preparing me to think critically, communicate effectively, and connect with the world around me.

# data[].attributes.body
So this one will be a LITTLE challenging for me only because I took these general education courses so long ago. I did my associates degree work in Liberal arts right out of high school (2006-2008ish). At the time I thought the classes were kinda silly because they didn't align with what I wanted to do in life. But as I look back on them, I am glad I took them because, unbeknownst to me, these classes were the foundation for everything I have done in my professional career. General education courses like college writing, statistics, history, and general science helped me perform basic, day-to-day, tasks in the military. When I became a supervisor and I had to write evaluations for my subordinates, I was always praised for my writing skills and my ability to capture the total picture of an individual by applying analytical, measurable, data tied to what the individuals did. I was so good, in fact, that I was tasked with teaching a class on how to write performance reviews. I would not have had that opportunity if I didn't take those classes.

I guess my point in writing this is to emphasize the importance of general education courses. It doesn't matter if you pursue a career in the military like I did, or if you want to be a doctor, lawyer, or a writer-- It is extremely important to master and crush those general education courses out of the gate because without a soldid foundation, you'll have a difficult time with anything else you pursue.

# data[].attributes.body
The differences I noticed among the three section: Foundation, Exploration and Integration is that Foundation builds the core basic skills, and it puts an emphasis on reading, writing and communication. Exploration dives into other diverse academics which includes science, humanities and arts. Integration applies all that's been learned into real life.

The purpose of Lifelong Learning Courses is to help students develop those core academic skills needed throughout their academic career and beyond. The purpose of Critical and Creative Thinking courses is to provide diverse perspectives, and to give students an ability to develop analytical and critical thinking skills. The purpose of Advancing and Applying Learning Courses is to encourage student to apply their knowledge in a professional setting

# data[].attributes.body
Some key words I've been able to identify from the mission statement are:

1. Critical Thinkers: people who are carefully able to analyze information provided to them and make proper judgements based off of that information

2. Creative Thinkers: People who are able to come up with original ideas and approach their problems with innovation

3. Communicate: The ability to express thoughts and ideas clearly

4. Experiences: What is gained inside and outside of the classroom

5. Professional: Being able to prepare for a career, developing skills valuable to work and professional development

# data[].attributes.headline
Nikolas Kedian - Why Do I Have to Take This Course? 3.1

# data[].attributes.subject
Nikolas Kedian - Why Do I Have to Take This Course? 3.1

# data[].attributes.body
In the General Education Program there are three integral sections: Foundation, Exploration, and Integration. These skills also are supported by: Critical & Creating Thinking Courses, Advancing & Applying Learning Courses, and Lifelong Learning courses.

While reading the wheel I noticed that each part builds off of another, and that you would need knowledge from another part to understand. The example would be in the exploration - physics implies that you have a strong mathematical understanding(Foundation). Which you would then be able to Integration in a research project or high impact practice. One key difference I noticed is that each segment served a different purpose or goal.

The purpose of Lifelong Learning Courses is to develop a well rounded person that has the ability to communicate, read, write, and mathematical skills.

The purpose of Critical and Creative Thinking Courses is built off of the learning achieved while in the lifelong learning courses. They

The purpose of Advancing and Applying Learning Courses is about how we apply the knowledge from the first two segments. In this segment we are using prior intelligence in the next level to think more independently which is the purpose.

I can match learning outcomes in each segment with the types of courses available.

For Foundation Courses(Reading, Writing, Information Literacy, Quantitive Reasoning, and Speaking & Listening) directly to the courses(First Year experience, Writing 1&2, Speech & world Language, and Mathematics). These are core classes that will be the basis of how you develop and apply the baseline knowledge.

For Exploration/Critical & Creative Thinking Courses - These apply students to think critically and apply their prior knowledge of a subject matter in new situations. I can lineup the learning outcomes with courses available.

For Integration(Advancing & Applying Learning Courses) - These courses use language and knowledge of the first two pieces and outs learning into action. The example would be in an internship - the goal is to use the knowledge you have learned and apply it to real life applications.

# data[].attributes.body
I must take this general education course because it aligns with Fitchburg State University’s mission to cultivate creative and critical thinkers. The program explicitly states: “The Fitchburg State University General Education program prepares creative and critical thinkers who integrate and communicate learning from a variety of disciplines and experiences in ways that enhance civic, personal, and professional lives.” Through this course, I build the ability to connect ideas across fields, express them effectively, and apply them meaningfully to my everyday life, community involvement, and future career. These courses go beyond requirements as they shape me into a more adaptable, thoughtful individual ready for real world challenges.

# data[].attributes.body
General education courses, including this one, form an intentional part of my curriculum designed to develop me as a creative and critical thinker. As explained in the mission statement from the ROTEL Pressbooks resource, these courses enable me to integrate and communicate knowledge across diverse disciplines and personal experiences. Ultimately, they prepare me to apply this broader understanding to enhance my civic, personal, and professional life. Far from being mere requirements, general education courses equip me with essential skills for lifelong learning, expanded perspectives, and success beyond the boundaries of any single major.