The Core Abilities
It is the goal of Pierce College to prepare students to live and work in a dynamically changing world by emphasizing whole-student development and hands-on learning. Through experiences both in and out of the classroom, you'll be given the opportunity to broaden your horizons and be challenged in ways that encourage the development of the abilities vital to succeeding in life. These core abilities, with examples, include:
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
If I work for a pharmaceutical company as a chemist and cannot analyze the process or precisely document the results of an experiment, my work will be of no use.
Effective Communication
If I am working in a community health clinic and I cannot clearly and thoughtfully explain to a patient why I am suggesting a particular treatment plan, the patient may 1) be confused about the procedures to follow or 2) not carry out the plan.
Information Competency
If I am working for an international trade company and cannot locate, evaluate, organize and explain information from a variety of different sources, I will not be able to make thorough and accurate business decisions.
Multiculturalism
If I am working with a group of children and don't understand the different social needs of people from different cultural backgrounds or with special needs, I will not be able to help each child develop group skills and a good sense of self-esteem.
Responsibility
If I am working in a veterinary clinic, I may know how to skillfully vaccinate animals, but if I ignore vaccination guidelines on a regular basis, I may be putting the animals, and the community, at risk.
