1) To develop cognitive and communication skills.

From Core segment to Core segment, we will expect students to master progressively more challenging exercise in cognitive (analysis, critique, synthesis reasoning) skills, involving all forms of discourse and all types of skills (speaking–listening, writing–reading).

2) To build a community of seekers after truth. In keeping with the Vatican II basis for the Core Curriculum and the value stance of the College, students will be exposed to and encouraged to develop strong convictions about the corporate nature of human existence and the unity of the family of humankind, both in intellectual (science, philosophy, theology) and in affective ways (commitment to the common good, even on a global scale). 3) To expand awareness to the many dimensions of reality. Over the eight semesters of Core, students will be expected to expand their interdisciplinary skills—the ability to make use of materials from outside their field(s) of specialization, but in a manner which is faithful to the methodologies of those other fields—and be able to analyze and to critique disciplinary readings at the level of a broadly educated generalist. They will be expected to discuss the readings in a way that respects the differences in various methodological approaches. 4) To cultivate the integrative habit of mind. Students will be expected to pay almost constant attention to and learn how to correlate and synthesize materials from a notable multiplicity of modes of inquiry. 5) To evoke formulation of, enthusiasm for, and commitment to values. Students will be challenged over the eight semesters of Core, to develop awareness of personal and communal values commitments (including conflicts and ambiguities), to understand the complex and demanding relationship between choice and consequence, to appreciate the value of liberal arts as a means of confronting current and future issues, and to cultivate practices and attitudes which reflect values consistent with a democratic society. 6) To witness to specific Christian values. Graduates will be expected to formulate a synthesis of their faith by means of the witness of many persons and will be encouraged to bear witness to that faith in their profession and all of their endeavors.

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8/11/98
rev. 8/7/02