Common Learning Goals
Bereans continue to strive to fulfill the Great
Commitments in ways that are both responsible to history and tradition
and yet responsive to the needs of students in the 21st century. In
1996, after numerous “Town Meeting” discussions open to all students,
faculty, staff, and trustees, a strategic plan entitled Being and Becoming: Berea College in the 21st Century
was adopted by vote of the College Faculty, General Faculty, and the
Board of Trustees. Being and Becoming articulates four pairs of learning
goals that apply to Berea students, faculty, and staff members alike,
and that are to be fostered not only in classrooms, but in all of the
other places where Bereans interact, from offices to residence halls to
athletic fields. These goals are to:
- develop the critical intellectual ability to address complex
problems from multiple perspectives and nurture moral growth with a
commitment to service;
- understand the relationship between humans and the natural world
and consider both the benefits and limitations of science and
technology;
- explore our individual roots and our shared American culture and know and respect cultures from around the world; and
- educate students, faculty, and staff to be creative, independent
thinkers and encourage collaboration and teamwork in learning and
working.
These learning goals are ideals toward which all
Bereans are encouraged to strive. They are intended to guide members of
the College community in preparing graduates who will serve and lead
their communities and be agents of positive change. The development of
these learning goals is but one example of how the Berea College
community is, through thoughtful and continuous planning, extending its
tradition of educational innovation.