German Discipline

UNIT MISSION/GOAL(S)

The German curriculum introduces students to the language, literature, and culture of German speaking countries. The courses contribute to a liberal education by promoting a global perspective through study of another culture (diversity and similarity of people)

Unit Mission/goal(s) and the Institutional Mission Relation

They connect with education and major requirements (including European studies).

Process courses develop skills in the language

Expanding perspectives courses deal with arts and other cultures; language, history, and philosophy; research and writing skills.

STUDENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES, EXPECTED OUTCOMES, ASSESSMENT METHODS & TOOLS, TIMELINE

Learning Objective 1

Comprehension and speaking in the target language

Expected Outcome 1

Awareness of structure and syntax; awareness of contrastive grammar (how language functions in English and German) Ability to communicate about everyday situations, literature, and culture.

Method(s), Measure(s), and Instrument(s) for Expected Outcome 1

Level 1: Tested every two weeks

Level 2: Reports by students

Level 3: Verbal interaction in class discussions

Test Format: Comprehension, substitution, transformation, translation, objective questions and essays.

Timeline for the Outcome 1

Starting Date for the Implementation: In Progress

Anticipated Date for the First Results: In Progress

Learning Objective 2

Reading Skills

Expected Outcome 2

On all levels (beginning through advanced courses), students obtain cultural information about German speaking countries and facility with idiomatic use of language.

Method(s), Measure(s), and Instrument(s) for Expected Outcome 2

Interpretation of texts, verbal interaction and discussion

Timeline for the Outcome 2

Starting Date for the Implementation: In Progress

Anticipated Date for the First Results: In Progress

Learning Objective 3

Reasoning and writing skills (includes word processing)

Expected Outcome 3

Students are able to write reports and papers on all three levels, beginning through advanced. They develop their ability to interpret texts and organize their thoughts for effective argument and communication.

Method(s), Measure(s), and Instrument(s) for Expected Outcome 3

Essay examinations (midterms and finals); at least three papers in each literature course and each 'W' course

Timeline for the Outcome 3

Starting Date for the Implementation: In Progress

Anticipated Date for the First Results: In Progress

Learning Objective 4

Cultural immersion through study abroad programs.

Expected Outcome 4

Increasing fluency and proficiency in German and understanding through experiencing another way of life.

Method(s), Measure(s), and Instrument(s) for Expected Outcome 4

Students keep a journal and write papers about cultural experiences, travel abroad.

Timeline for the Outcome 4

Starting Date for the Implementation: In Progress

Anticipated Date for the First Results: In Progress