In this course students will investigate methods, assumptions, constructs and principles in the social/behavioral sciences and education. Students in this trans-disciplinary course utilize the process and products of research to understand and explore their particular area of study. This introductory course will provide depth and context through the consideration of research terminology, conception, design, implementation, and analysis. Students develop research skills required in specific majors, learn disciplinary norms for ethical research, and understand the generation of new knowledge in their chosen field.

College Success Seminar provides the foundation for an informed and meaningful college experience. In the seminar, students discover how their individual capacities position them for the attainment of their goals within the academic community of Granite State College. The course broadens understanding of key concepts common to integrative learning within higher education settings, particularly focusing on the ways multiple academic disciplines can improve success in applied careers. It empowers students to become informed users of information as well as engage in research and planning for subsequent courses. Students in this course will consider the ways various learning opportunities relate to one another and to the individual's personal, academic, and career goals. College Seminar fosters the self-awareness and intellectual perspective that are the hallmarks of well-educated persons and lifelong, engaged learners. For students in the AA General Studies program, this course will also guide students in developing their twenty credit academic concentration within the associate degree.

Many problems in today’s society are complex with no simple method of solving them. The goal of this final general education course is to explore complex themes related to the human experience by making connections across multiple academic disciplines. Several topics will be offered each term and all sections will provide students with the opportunity to hone their research, writing, and presentational skills. Students will use advanced problem-solving skills and methodologies to reflect on the section’s topic, collaborate with peers, and investigate solutions using interdisciplinary research and analysis.

This course will guide students as they develop the necessary skills to identify, access, and incorporate the best available evidence using valid and reliable sources to make informed decisions. Students will explore the process of developing knowledge, innovation, and quality improvement principles of evidence-based decision-making. Ethical standards for protecting human subjects are integrated throughout the course.

View Course Outcomes:

1. Evaluate appropriate and credible sources to inform decisions.
2. Apply principles of evidence-based practice to inform decision making.
3. Integrate valid and reliable information/evidence as the basis for evidence-based decision making.
4. Discuss the ethical requirements to implement/translate evidence in decision-making including the ethics of conducting research with human subjects.
5. Examine how evidence-based decision-making provides a framework for effective planning.