What is this service?
The Student Transformative Learning Record (STLR) is a comprehensive program at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) designed to track and document students' transformative learning experiences outside of the traditional classroom setting. The STLR program recognizes and promotes the acquisition of essential skills and competencies through engagement in co-curricular activities, community service, leadership roles, internships, research projects, and other experiential learning opportunities.
What are the benefits?
- Holistic Development: Promotes holistic student development by recognizing and valuing diverse learning experiences that contribute to personal growth, professional development, and lifelong learning.
- Transferable Skills: Helps students develop transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, leadership, cultural competence, and ethical reasoning that are essential for success in academic, professional, and personal contexts.
- Resume Enhancement: Provides students with a verifiable record of their transformative learning experiences that can be included in resumes, portfolios, graduate school applications, and job interviews to showcase their skills, accomplishments, and personal growth.
- Engagement and Retention: Encourages student engagement and retention by fostering a sense of belonging, purpose, and community through co-curricular activities and experiential learning opportunities.
- Data-Informed Decision-Making: Generates data and insights into student engagement, learning outcomes, and program effectiveness to inform institutional decision-making, curriculum design, and student support services.
What is covered?
- STLR Credits: Recognition of transformative learning experiences by awarding STLR credits upon completion of approved activities and reflection components.
- Activity Catalog: Access to a comprehensive catalog of STLR-approved activities, including service-learning projects, internships, research experiences, leadership development programs, cultural immersion activities, and global learning experiences.
- Reflection Tools: Tools and resources to facilitate student reflection on their learning experiences, including prompts, guidelines, and reflection journals, to deepen understanding, critical thinking, and self-awareness.
- Digital Badges: Awarding of digital badges for completed STLR activities, providing students with a portable and shareable credential to showcase their achievements and competencies.
- Portfolio Development: Support for students in compiling and curating their STLR experiences into a digital portfolio or learning record to document their learning journey and showcase their skills and accomplishments.
What is not covered?
- Credit-bearing Courses: STLR credits are not awarded for credit-bearing courses or academic coursework completed as part of a degree program, as these experiences are already recognized through academic transcripts.
- Financial Aid or Scholarships: The STLR program does not provide financial aid or scholarships directly to students but may offer opportunities for funding or recognition through sponsored activities or awards.
How to access the service?
Students can access the STLR program through the STLR website or platform, where they can explore approved activities, track their progress, submit reflections, and earn STLR credits. Faculty and staff can participate in STLR initiatives by serving as activity sponsors, mentors, or evaluators, or by integrating STLR activities into their courses or programs.
Service Availability: The STLR program is available year-round, with activities and opportunities offered throughout the academic year and during summer sessions. Online resources and support services are accessible 24/7 for students, faculty, and staff.
Additional Notes:
- The STLR program is aligned with UCO's core values and institutional learning outcomes, emphasizing the importance of transformative learning experiences in preparing students for success in a diverse and interconnected world.
- Continuous assessment and evaluation of the STLR program ensure alignment with institutional goals, student needs, and best practices in experiential learning and student development.