COLL 150

COLL 150 courses are small seminars that explore deeply a particular topic via close readings of texts, data, or methods of inquiry.  The goal of COLL 150 is to initiate students into the culture of critical thinking, persuasive writing, and independent inquiry that is at the core of the undergraduate program.  COLL 150 seminars highlight student discussion.  All COLL 150s carry 4 credits.  One COLL 150 is required of all freshman and transfer students regardless of credits already earned.

COLL 150 assignments consist primarily of writing, with students producing a total of at least 6,000 words (24 pages).  At least one major writing assignment should follow the conventions of scholarly writing in the discipline.

The COLL 150 assessment involves a two-pronged approach that encompasses both course portfolios and a review of student work. This strategy is designed to streamline the assessment process for COLL 150 faculty, departments, and programs. By focusing on the COLL 150 Learning Expectations, this assessment aims to efficiently evaluate student learning and course effectiveness.

COLL 150 Learning Expectations (i.e., what the faculty expects students to learn and be able to do in COLL 150 courses):

1. Students will thoroughly analyze and interpret topics pertinent to the subject matter of the course [Critical Thinking]
2. Students will work independently to understand texts and form judgments on topics pertinent to the subject matter of the course. [Independent Inquiry]
3. Students will communicate effectively on topics pertinent to the subject matter of the course [Scholarly Writing – assessed directly through review of student work using the AAC&U Written Communication VALUE Rubric.]

COLL 150 Course Portfolio Description

Course Portfolios show how courses address the COLL150 learning expectations above.  A course portfolio includes the following:

1. Course Syllabus (required) – The EPC suggests including COLL 150 language. For courses taught in a foreign language (e.g., French), please upload your syllabus in English.
2. Narrative (required) – the Narrative Template briefly describes how the course addresses each of the COLL 150 features.
3. Instructions for Student Assignment(s) (required) – instructions to students for completing assignments that address Learning Expectations. In some cases, a single assignment may demonstrate all three expectations.
4. Additional Materials (optional) – materials that further demonstrate to reviewers how assignments address learning expectations (e.g., grade distributions, rubrics/rating guides, comments, etc.).
5. Course Portfolio Rating Guide – completed by reviewers after evaluating the portfolio.

COLL 150 Student Work Description 

Scholarly Writing (Written Communication) demonstrates student learning with respect to the expectations above.  A student work portfolio includes ungraded student work and the associated assignment instruction to students.