Cognitive Skills
Domain Definition
The Cognitive Skills domain involves higher order intellectual thinking skills and utilizing cognitive processes such as analyzing academic, social, or professional situations; connecting knowledge; and making meaning in the face of ambiguity. Cognitive skills are key to understanding one’s self as a life-long learner and applying a critical lens to problems, questions, and issues.
Descriptors
Critical Thinking/Problem Solving
- Identifies, analyzes, and interprets important problems, questions, and issues
- Critically assesses the relevance of information to develop alternative perspectives and solutions
- Applies theories, concepts, and previous experiences to inform new situations and creatively solve practical problems
Academic Success Skill Development
- Develop an academic self-concept
- Connect academic skills to course content
- Utilize cognitive and studying strategies
Reflective Thinking
- Process and make judgments about past knowledge and experiences
- Relates new knowledge to past understanding and experiences
- Makes connections between knowledge in relation to one’s self and others
Intellectual Flexibility
- Accepts and navigates ambiguity
- Considers new information and perspectives
- Adapts to different approaches and ways of thinking
Creativity
- Seeks new and innovative ways to approach problems from a different perspective
- Integrates mental, emotional, and creative processes
Learning Outcome Statement:
Students who engage with UIC Student Affairs programs and services will be able to evaluate problems, issues, and questions through cognitive strategies to make meaning of their integrated experiences.