At a glance
Alfred State has long been a recognized leader in applied learning, and is now the first State University of New York (SUNY) college to require this form of “learning by doing” among its official Institutional Student Learning Outcomes (ISLO) for every student on campus. The college has also identified the enhancement and expansion of applied learning as a primary goal in its new Strategic Plan.
Alfred State has long been a recognized leader in applied learning, and is now the first State University of New York (SUNY) college to require this form of “learning by doing” among its official Institutional Student Learning Outcomes (ISLO) for every student on campus. The college has also identified the enhancement and expansion of applied learning as a primary goal in its new Strategic Plan.
“I am pleased to see Alfred State enhance applied learning by embedding it throughout the curriculum,” said SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher. “This action will further boost student support so real-world, hands-on experiences are more carefully integrated into course work. Simply put, students will be better prepared by entering internship, research, or service placements that enable them to gain more from direct experience and reflect on that experience, creating citizens who are prepared to address the real-world challenges of the day.”
For many years, programs at Alfred State have already required applied learning and practical training before graduation. By formally including these job-ready activities in the ISLO, the school can now better track and measure how much students are gaining from the hands-on learning.
“Ensuring that students receive hands-on experience in their program of study has long been a hallmark of an Alfred State education,” said SUNY Provost Alexander N. Cartwright. “By viewing applied learning through the lens of student learning outcomes, Alfred State is further strengthening applied learning experiences within and outside of the classroom. This work supports completion and positions students well for the job market.”
Institutional Student Learning Outcomes are defined as clearly stated, specific, and measurable goals for the accumulated knowledge, skills, and attitudes that students develop during a course of study. For the past year, members of the Faculty Senate conducted research, solicited feedback in discussion sessions, conducted schoolwide surveys and held an open comment period before defining the four ISLOs. Through this process, Alfred State adopted the ISLO that students will demonstrate the ability to address and meet real world challenges by engaging in applied learning activities.
Alfred State is also launching a new Strategic Plan through a collaborative, participatory process. In the applied learning strategic priority, the college states “through sustaining innovations, Alfred State will enhance and expand applied learning opportunities across the student experience.” Both the Strategic Plan and the ISLO reaffirm Alfred State’s continued commitment to all aspects of applied learning, including project-based learning, internships, practicums, clinical experiences, applied research, and many other forms of hands-on learning. In the context of this work, Alfred State leaders are sharing the accomplishment with their peer institutions.
“At the recent SUNY Applied Learning Conference, Alfred State shared how applied learning enhances the student experience in both curricular and co-curricular experiences. Many of these experiences also highlight civic engagement and sustainability, which are important aspects of Alfred State culture,” said Alfred State Provost Dr. Kristin Poppo. “By formally recognizing how critical applied learning is for student success, Alfred State can continue to prepare students for careers in high-demand areas and remain the go-to school for many employers.”
Poppo, along with Associate Vice President Charles Neal and English and Humanities Assistant Professor Jason Stupp, were featured speakers at SUNY’s Applied Learning Conference. They spoke on topics including faculty engagement, approvals needed for applied learning activities, and the leadership required to make applied learning a top priority.
