These succinct papers were written in collaboration with the Professional and Organizational Development Network in Higher Education (POD). As a resource to support improved student learning , each is useful to anyone wanting to address specific ways to facilitate learning on the following twelve objectives -- which are central to the IDEA Student Ratings of Instruction System.

Introduction

• IDEA Objective 1: “Gaining factual knowledge (terminology, classifications, methods, trends),” Michael Theall
• IDEA Objective 2: “Learning fundamental principles, generalizations, or theories,” Walt Wager and Marilla Svinicki
• IDEA Objective 3: “Learning to Apply Course Material (to improve thinking, problem solving, and decisions),” Todd Zakrajsek and Tamara Rosier
• IDEA Objective 4: “Developing specific skills, competencies, and points of view needed by professionals in the field most closely related to this course,” Nancy McClure
• IDEA Objective 5: “Acquiring skills in working with others as a member of a team,” Donna M. Qualters
• IDEA Objective 6: “Developing creative capacities (writing, inventing, designing, performing in art, music, drama, etc.),” Jennifer Franklin and Michael Theall
• IDEA Objective 7: “Gaining a broader understanding and appreciation of intellectual/cultural activity,” Pamela E. Barnett and Jodi Cressman
• IDEA Objective 8: “Developing skill in expressing myself orally or in writing,” Frances Johnson
• IDEA Objective 9: “Learning how to find and use resources for answering questions or solving problems,” Gail MacKay, Barbara Millis, and Rebecca Brent
• IDEA Objective 10: “Developing a clearer understanding of, and commitment to, personal values,” Victoria Bhavsar, Jeff King, and Karen Becker
• IDEA Objective 11: “Learning to analyze and critically evaluate ideas, arguments, and points of view,” Patricia Armstrong, Sonja Moyer, and Katherine Stanton
• IDEA Objective 12: “Acquiring an interest in learning more by asking questions and seeking answers,” Virginia S. Lee, Patricia Shaw, and Leone Snyder