General education requirements guide the student toward an intelligent understanding of the whole self and of the physical and social world. These requirements encourage the student to explore different areas of human inquiry not only to gain a basic understanding of these areas, but also to comprehend and use the principles, methods, values and thought processes of these disciplines. These explorations include an examination of the physical universe, its life forms and natural phenomena, human behavior and artistic and creative accomplishments. Basic to these studies and to the student's effectiveness in society is the capacity to think clearly, logically and analytically; to communicate clearly both orally and in writing; to perform quantitative functions; to find information; and to examine and evaluate that information using critical thinking skills.

After completing the general education requirements, the graduate should have the skills, knowledge, and insights to evaluate and appreciate the physical environment, culture, and society. To promote these skills and knowledge, Pasadena City College has developed General Education Outcomes and Competencies.

GENERAL EDUCATION OUTCOMES
Approved by Educational Policies Committee/Academic Senate

1. Communication: Use creative expression to communicate acquired knowledge or skills effectively. Competencies:
   • 1.1 Reading: Read and comprehend written material critically and effectively at the appropriate program level.
   • 1.2 Writing: Write in a clear, coherent, and organized manner, at the appropriate academic level, to explain ideas; to express feelings; and to support conclusions, claims, or theses.
   • 1.3 Listening: Listen actively, respectfully, and critically.
   • 1.4 Creative Communication: Create or communicate through speech, music, art and/or performance.
2. Cognition: Use critical thinking skills to observe, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate ideas and information. Competencies:
   • 2.1 Problem Solving: Identify and analyze real or potential problems and develop, test, apply, and evaluate possible solutions, using the scientific method where appropriate.
   • 2.2 Critical Thinking and Application: Formulate and apply knowledge, skills, ideas, and concepts to appropriate contexts.
   • 2.3 Quantitative Reasoning: Apply appropriate mathematical concepts and methods to understand, analyze, and explain issues in quantitative terms.
3. Information Competency: Use research and technical skills effectively and ethically to achieve an objective. Competencies:
   • 3.1 Information Literacy: Locate, retrieve, and evaluate information using appropriate research tools.
   • 3.2 Research Proficiency: Conduct research and present findings effectively and ethically including the use of correct source citations.
   • 3.3 Technological Literacy: Apply technology effectively to locate, evaluate, interpret, organize, and present information using appropriate research tools.
4. Social Responsibility: Demonstrate sensitivity to and respect for others. Competencies:
   • 4.1 Respect for Diversity: Demonstrate an understanding of the beliefs, opinions, and values of other people and cultures.
   • 4.2 Effective Citizenship: Demonstrate an understanding of the requirements for being an informed, ethical, and active citizen of the local community, California, the nation, and the world.
5. Personal Development: Demonstrate an understanding of practices that promote physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. Competencies:
   • 5.1 Awareness of Mind and Body: Demonstrate knowledge and practices that promote a sense of self as an integrated physiological, psychological, and social being.
   • 5.2 Aesthetic Appreciation: Show an informed appreciation for artistic and individual expression.