The Student Learning Outcomes (SLO) for a BA in Spanish are set into 4 main categories with objective taxonomies for each category.
Language Proficiency and Communication
The ability to speak, listen, read, and write in the target language to a level of competency that adequately reflects experience and training levels. Students will be able to do the following:
- Recognize grammar and vocabulary concomitant to proficiency level
- Interpret texts, utterances, and other input in Spanish to an intermediate-high level (ACTFL)
- Produce speech, writing, and other output in Spanish to an intermediate-high level (ACTFL)
- Create writing and speech that uses higher-order ideas, concepts, and expressions in the target language
Cultural Knowledge and Understanding
The ability to recognize the complexities and nuances of the people who identify with the Hispanic world. Students will be able to do the following:
- Describe central historical events, figures, and texts that deal with the Hispanophone tradition
- Explain the significance of cultural artifacts, literature, music, and visual and performing arts that come from the Hispanic world
- Design original creative works that respond to and are in dialogue with the cultures of Spain and Latin America
Critical and Analytical Thinking Skills
The ability to evaluate all forms of information carefully and to apply such evaluations to professional and personal practices of life. Students will be able to do the following:
- Define key theoretical frameworks related to cultural, literary, and linguistic studies
- Organize cohesive, argumentative writing that applies theoretical frameworks
- Critique data, arguments, and information with well-reasoned analysis
Experiential Learning
The ability to combine classroom learning with hands-on practice of language use. Students will be able to do the following:
- Identify personal and career goals that Spanish proficiency can enhance
- Develop a portfolio of academic, professional, and social achievements in Spanish
- Plan projects, events, and opportunities to publicly share their skills in professional, volunteer, or humanitarian ways