Definition of Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness

I. Content Knowledge

Literacy

• Read fiction and non-fiction, understanding conclusions reached and points of view expressed
•  Write clearly and coherently for a variety of purposes and audiences
• Use logic and rhetoric to analyze and critique ideas
• Access and use primary and secondary sources to explain questions being researched
• Use standard language properly: correct grammar, usage and spelling

Mathematical Sciences

• Think critically, analyze evidence, read graphs, understand logical arguments, detect logical fallacies, test conjectures, evaluate risks, and appreciate the role mathematics plays in the modern world, i.e., be quantitatively literate
• Understand and apply algebraic and geometric concepts and techniques
• Use concepts and techniques of probability and statistics
• Apply knowledge of mathematics to problem-solve, analyze issues, and make critical decisions that arise in everyday life

Science

• Think scientifically and apply the scientific method to complex systems and phenomena
• Use empirical evidence to draw conclusions
• Recognize conclusions are subject to interpretation and can be challenged
• Understand the core scientific concepts, principles, laws, and vocabulary, and how scientific knowledge is extended, refined, and revised over time

Social Sciences

• Identify and describe historical, social, cultural, political, geographical, and economic concepts
• Interpret sources, and evaluate evidence and competing ideas
• Build conceptual frameworks based on understanding themes and the overall flow of events
• Understand civic responsibility, including how governments work in the United States and in other countries
• Interpret new information from a global and multicultural perspective

The Arts and Humanities

• Understand and appreciate how the arts and humanities (expressions of culture and identity through language, movement, sound, and visual representation) contribute to and shape culture and our understanding of culture
• Understand how the arts are used as an instrument of social and political thought
• Identify leading innovators in the arts and humanities and the contributions they have made to their respective genres
• Communicate and interact effectively with communicators of different languages
• Understand how communicating in another language can improve learning in other disciplines and expand professional, personal, and social opportunities

II. Learning and Life Skills

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

• Apply logical reasoning and analytical skills
• Evaluate the credibility and merit of information, ideas, and arguments
• Discern bias, pose questions, marshal evidence, and present solutions

Find and Use Information/Information Technology

• Assess the credibility and relevance of information
• Conduct research using acceptable research methods
• Apply different research paradigms, including the collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data and research
• Select, integrate, and apply appropriate technology to expand information and knowledge

Creativity and Innovation

• Demonstrate intellectual curiosity
• Generate new ideas and novel approaches
• Develop new connections where none previously existed
• Global and Cultural Awareness
• Appreciate the arts, culture, and humanities
• Interact effectively with and respect the diversity of different individuals, groups, and cultures
• Recognize the interdependent nature of our world
• Civic Responsibility
• Practice civic responsibility and citizenship
• Balance personal freedom with the interests of a community

Work Ethic

• Set priorities and manage time
• Take initiative, and follow through
• Learn from instruction and criticism
• Take responsibility for actions and work
• Act with maturity, civility, and politeness

Personal Responsibility

• Act assertively
• Be a self-advocate
• Possess financial literacy and awareness of consumer economics
• Behave honestly and ethically

Communication

• Read, write, listen and speak effectively
• Construct clear, coherent, and persuasive arguments

Collaboration

• Be a team player
• Acknowledge authority and take direction
• Cooperate for a common purpose