10 Practices that Matter

The following educational practices—all signature characteristics of Lafayette—lead to deep learning and engagement. Identified by George D. Kuh, Chancellors’ Professor Emeritus of Higher Education, Indiana University, Bloomington, they have been widely tested and are based on student learning outcomes evidence.

1. First-Year Seminars and experiences

All students take a First-Year Seminar.

2. Common intellectual experiences

All students fulfill the requirements of the Common Course of Study, which includes:

First-Year Seminar, one course in Humanities, one course in Natural Sciences (with lab), one course in Social Sciences, and two additional courses in two different divisions outside the student’s home division.
Quantitative Reasoning, one course
Writing Requirement, three courses
Global and Multiculturalism, two courses
Values Requirement, one course
Second Language, one year of study to reach elementary proficiency

3. Learning communities

Grossman House, McKelvy House, Arts House, 16 academically focused living-learning communities on Monroe Street, six special-interest floors in residence halls
10 Practices that Matter

4. Writing-intensive courses

See Common Course of Study in No. 2.

5. Collaborative assignments and projects

Develops skills in innovating, critical thinking, problem-solving, and applied knowledge through these programs and more: Technology Clinic, Grand Challenges, Economic Empowerment and Global Learning Project, and Center for Innovation, Design, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership.

6. Undergraduate research

50% of students have done research with a faculty member by senior year.

7. Diversity/global learning

53% of students have studied abroad by senior year.

8. Service learning, community-based learning

79% of students have participated in community service or volunteer work by senior year.
10 Practices that Matter

9. Internships

78% have had an internship or field experience by senior year.

10. Capstone courses/projects

Students complete a capstone course or project, or conduct an honors thesis in their major.