Loyola University Chicago

Division of Student Development

Divisional Learning Outcomes

Overview

The Division of Student Development at Loyola University Chicago supports a transformative, holistic education through its programs and services. Staff, administrators, and student leaders engage and support all students in learning and applying the values, skills, and competencies needed to enhance the intellectual, social, and spiritual growth of every student. The Division offers developmental programs and services to support students and enrich their learning experience through involvement in a wide range of co-curricular pursuits that mirror the values of the core curriculum. Based on the University Mission, the Divisional Vision and Mission, the Characteristics of a Jesuit Education" and the Student Promise, the Division of Student Development adopts the following Divisional Learning Outcomes as part of its Strategic Plan for igniting campus engagement and preparing students to lead and serve in a diverse and changing world.

Five Characteristics of a Jesuit Education

  • Commitment to excellence

  • Faith in God and the religious experience

  • Service that promotes justice

  • Values-based leadership

  • Global awareness

Domain Definition:

In collaboration with campus partners, the DSD helps students to develop and apply knowledge and skills that support academic, personal, and professional success. Areas of knowledge and skill development may include (but are not limited to) communication, conflict mediation, critical thinking, and working in teams. Through fostering students’ Commitment to Excellence, students will become better equipped to persevere in current endeavors, to pursue new ideas, and better address complex social issues, in relationship with others. This process occurs through developing skills, understanding and connecting knowledge across disciplines, and incorporating knowledge into daily life.

Learning Outcome:

As a result of participating in DSD programs, services, and activities, students will gain knowledge and skills that can be applied in academic and career settings, as well as in everyday life. 

 

Domain Definition:

DSD activities promote understanding and appreciation of the intersecting social identities, experiences, and perspectives of oneself, others, and communities, and the ways in which they affect human interactions and systems. DSD’s activities encourage awareness and critical reflection regarding issues of social justice at local, national, and global levels (Global Awareness). They also provide support and opportunities for students to engage in open, challenging, and constructive dialogue and interactions.

Learning Outcome:

As a result of participating in DSD programs, services, and activities, students will develop their personal identities, recognize and support the intersecting identities that others hold, and apply awareness of these identities to dialogue, engage, and collaborate with diverse communities. 

 

 

Domain Definition:

Students have opportunities to develop and exercise leadership skills in order to purposefully and collaboratively pursue positive change. This domain reflects The Student Promise, which calls students to Care for Self, Care for Others, and Care for Community. DSD activities foster the development and enactment of Values-Based Leadership, which is grounded in self-reflection, personal integrity, and ethical behavoir. DSD also encourages students to engage in Service that Promotes Justice by taking action in solidarity to promote justice and positive change.

Learning Outcome:

As a result of participating in DSD programs, services, and activities, students will develop capacity for socially responsible leadership by: (a) developing the capacity to recognize, reflect upon, and work to address moral and ethical challenges; (b) demonstrating the ability to work collaboratively with others; and(c) advancing equitable, sustainable, and thriving communities. 

 

Domain Definition:

What it means to deepen one’s understanding of Faith in God and the Religious Experience will look different for each individual student. As students at a Jesuit university, students will grow in appreciation and understanding of the Ignatian values such as Magis, faith that does justice, seeking God in all things, and being contemplatives in action. They will ebgage in practices such as vocational discernment, meaningful reflection, and values exploration.

Learning Outcome:

As a result of participating in DSD programs, services, and activities, students will develop an understanding of Ignatian values, cultivate and explore personal beliefs, deepen relationships, and deepen their understanding of the beliefs and faith traditions of oneself and others.

 

 

Domain Definition:

Holistic wellness involves physical and mental health, as well as social and emotional well-being. DSD supports student well-being through offering: (a) physical and mental health services; (b) recreational opportunities; (c) support to students experiencing challenges (crisis, loss, etc.); (d) opportunities to reflect upon the impact of one’s actions on oneself and others (in situations involving – but not limited to - conduct and conflict); and (d) engagement opportunities that contribute to a sense of belonging.

Learning Outcome:

As a result of participating in Student Development programs, services, and activities, students will: (a) build healthy habits; (b) connect with resources and support; (c) establish supportive relationships; and (d) develop awareness and skills that enable them to be resilient and constructive members of communities.