Clarkson Common Experience

Clarkson Common Experience (CCE)

Overview

The Clarkson Common Experience (CCE) is the overarching education and growth framework for all undergraduate students, integrating major-field learning with broad expectations to prepare them for modern world challenges. It is defined as a set of Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) rather than a rigid set of identical courses, allowing flexibility for students to meet outcomes through various classes and pedagogical styles. Key components include the Clarkson Seminar (UNIV 190), Knowledge Areas (KAs), Technology (TECH) courses, and Communication (C) points.

Syllabus Alignment and Assessment Standards

The syllabus serves as the primary evidence that a course meets CCE requirements, providing the framework for content, SLOs, and student evaluation. Instructors must ensure their syllabi include five specific elements to align with formal standards:

• Course Description: Must include an explicit connection to the CCE requirement, such as stating which specific Knowledge Area or Technology theme the course addresses.
• CCE Statement: A dedicated heading titled "Clarkson Common Experience Statement:" must follow the description, identifying the fulfilled components (e.g., "This course has a University Course designation covering both Science, Technology, and Society and Cultures and Societies").

SAMPLE CCE Statement 

Example 1: This course has a University Course designation, covering both Science, Technology, and the Cultures and Societies knowledge areas. It has one communication point”. 

OR

Example 2: This is a Knowledge Area Course covering Contemporary Global Issues (CGI) area.

• Mapping SLOs: Each syllabus must explicitly link course-specific outcomes to the CCE designation learning outcomes identified in the application form. This is often achieved through a mapping table that aligns course outcomes with CCE criteria.
• Assessment Identification: Instructors must identify specific graded activities (exams, journals, projects) associated with each CCE-related learning outcome. For example, a Communication (C1) course must show frequent assignments with regular feedback and opportunities for revision.
• Tentative Schedule: The schedule must demonstrate when and how CCE SLOs are addressed and evaluated throughout the semester.

For Knowledge Area courses, instructors must address a majority of the specific SLOs for that area (e.g., CGI, CSO, or STS). Technology (TECH) courses must cover the mandatory outcome regarding the role of engineering in serving human needs plus at least two of the remaining three technology outcomes.

Course Designation Procedures

Instructors wishing to propose a new or existing course for a CCE designation (KA, C, or TECH) must follow a formal application process in conjunction with their academic unit.

1. Preparation of Materials: Proposers must complete the SAS Course Change/Approval form, a detailed Course Syllabus following the University template, and specific CCE Application Forms for each requested designation. While optional, a cover memo providing course justification and curriculum fit is recommended to provide context for the committee.
2. Submission Workflow: Materials are first submitted to the Department Chair for initial approval and then forwarded to the CCE committee at ccec@clarkson.edu.
3. Review Process: The CCE committee reviews the proposal and assigns one of four statuses: Approved, Minor Revisions Needed (cosmetic changes), Major Revisions Needed (significant concerns), or Declined (missing documents or insufficient justification). Proposers may resubmit revised materials for further review.