First Year Experience Course

In the last century, the 20th century, many students attended college to prepare for and secure jobs. In the 21st century, students need to recognize that they must learn to develop skills that will prepare them for an increase in non-traditional and new employment opportunities. In order to prepare students for these opportunities, this course focuses on developing "21st-century skills."

The SLS 1501 course also develops "life skills" that will facilitate students' transition to the University and prepare them for their future academic and professional success. As a hybrid course, there is one in-person meeting per week for classroom discussion of materials with special attention focused on reflection and interaction with the instructor on key concepts. Additionally, there are specific assignments and tasks that must be completed outside of class. There is a final individual presentation. 

Learning Objectives

• Develop a lifelong passion for learning that shapes students’ university and life experience

• Develop a more in-depth understanding of the intellectual approaches fostered by the university

• Develop an aspiration to attain the skills necessary to meet academic, personal, and professional goals

• Develop an appreciation for diverse perspectives

• Develop an understanding of 21st century and life skills and learn to use them in practical and academic applications

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

• Understand and explain the importance of lifelong learning

• Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills

• Locate available resources within the university, community, or online to support their academic, personal, and professional goals

• Interact effectively and constructively with peers and faculty

• Define and apply concepts of social entrepreneurship

This is a 1-credit course that is usually taken by undergraduate students during their first or second year at FIU.