Adams Institutional Outcomes
Adams State University has university-wide learning outcomes based on what global employers seek from graduates. I have aligned some of my professional achievements with ASU’s outcomes.

Area 1: Knowledge of human cultures and physical & natural world
I’ve used my knowledge and expertise in psychological science to teach undergraduate and graduate classes in human development, research methods, statistics, learning, and cognitive science. A key components of this learning outcome is place-based education; one of my research projects at ASU is examining a placed-based undergraduate research experience that the STEM department has launched.

Rena lecturing in
statistics at ASU
Area II: Intellectual & practical skills
In 2018, I was honored to be asked to do a TEDx talk in Okoboji, IA with Phil Kassel. My oral communication, critical and creative thinking skills were stretched in this new process. Even my written communication was challenged as I was asked to write blogs about the experience, which is outside my comfort zone. One of the best parts of learning, is the opportunity to improve; I hope to give another TEDx talk in the future to apply lessons learned. Click on the video to watch.

Rena & Phil giving the TEDx talk
Area III: Personal and Social Responsibility
Working with multiple departments, I helped develop Movement for the Mind; a program supporting physical and mental health in youth in SLV. The program is an example of civic engagement. We are supporting the second pillar of the learning outcome, which is foundations and skills for lifelong learning by encouraging youth to develop healthy habits, and inspiring ASU students to be physically active and engage with the community. I am personally committed to lifelong learning by continuously studying my discipline and challenging myself in my personal and professional life.

A movement for the mind participant
Area IV: Integrative and Applied Learning
This learning objective is about synthesis and advanced accomplishment across general and specialized studies. Drawing on empirical evidence across multiple sub-disciplines, such as learning science, positive psychology, and behavior change, I helped develop a 4-step process to cultivate grit and goal achievement. I lead workshops and aim to develop online classes to foster champion cultures, well-being, and shared meaning.

365 Grit Website
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