Assessing AASCU's Global Challenges Blended Model Course

Abstract

In 2006 the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) launched its Global Engagement Initiative and began developing a set of curricular tools for faculty to use in educating globally competent citizens.  In 2011 the initiative developed a national blended model course.  That course has now been delivered to more than 1,200 students on 15 campuses across the country and abroad.  This paper explores the effectiveness of the national blended course in meeting its stated learning objectives.  In 2013-14, pre/post-tests were conducted on three pilot campuses.  The pre/post-tests indicate that students’ knowledge about global issues and ways to get involved in civic life increased after taking the model course. Progress toward some of the other learning objectives was less clear, and the authors make recommendations for further study.