General Education

General Education is that part of our students’ education that goes beyond learning technical skills and allows students to become well-rounded, higher-functioning citizens of the world. As an institute of higher learning, we are committed to the inherent value of general education and know that critical thinking ability, communication skills, information literacy, math and problem solving skills and more, are crucial for our graduates’ success in their future technical careers. We also recognize that an associate’s degree or diploma at Mitchell Technical Institute must mean something more than job skills. Our students must become lifelong learners with the ability to adapt to a changing world and ever-increasing job expectations. To this end, general education learning outcomes that all MTI graduates should possess have been identified as follows:

MTI General Education Learning Outcomes

Math

Students will understand and apply essential mathematical processes and analysis.

  • Perform computations using appropriate methods and/or technologies
  • Demonstrate knowledge and application of measurement
  • Demonstrate knowledge and application of formulas
  • Use math processes to solve problems
  • Apply problem-solving steps

Human Relations

Students will apply human relationship skills to work successfully in a diverse society.

  • Demonstrate awareness and respect for people and their differences
  • Ask for and listen to others’ opinions and solutions
  • Identify individual strengths and challenges in occupational relationships
  • Apply team skills to group projects
  • Demonstrate conflict resolution techniques
  • Understand the benefits of community involvement and civic responsibility

Technology

Students will use computer technology to access, organize and communicate information.

  • Use word processing, e-mail and presentation software to effectively and professionally communicate information
  • Create and manage workbooks using spreadsheet software
  • Access and manipulate data using database software
  • Use electronic resources to conduct research

English

Students will communicate effectively with others using a variety of contexts and formats.

  • Use standard English spelling, mechanics, grammar and structure
  • Create written communication which clearly, concisely and accurately expresses ideas and conveys needs appropriate to the audience
  • Participate effectively in groups by demonstrating the ability to speak, listen, respond and interpret
  • Speak effectively, both formally and informally, in a variety of contexts
  • Conduct, examine, interpret and document research responsibly

Both diploma and Associate of Applied Science degree candidates at MTI are required to successfully complete general education courses as designated by the technical department. Please see your advisor or the registrar for more details.

Student Success Course

The Student Success Course provides a foundation for a successful transition to higher education and the world of work. This course emphasizes goal setting, critical thinking skills, learning strategies, and personal qualities essential to both academic and career success. Information about college procedures, resources and services that relate to student success are discussed. Additional topics explore life management issues such as self-esteem, motivation, goal-setting, diversity, and personal finance.

Diploma Track

Students pursuing a diploma are required to complete a minimum of 10 credits in general education.

Computer Literacy Elective

3

Communications Elective

3

Math Elective

3

SSS 100Student Success

1

AAS Degree

Students pursuing the Associate of Applied Science degree are required to complete a minimum of 16 credits in general education in six subject areas. Individual departments may require additional or specific credits. See program descriptions for options.

Communications (3 credits required)

ENGL 101English Composition

3

ENGL 110Workplace Communications

3

Math (3 credits required)

MATH 104Technical Math

3

MATH 105Mathematical Reasoning

3

MATH 130Business Math

3

Computer Literacy (3 credits required)

CIS 101Computer Concepts

3

CIS 105Introduction to Computers

3

CIS 107Spreadsheet Concepts

3

EC 138CCNA I: Intro to Networking

3

EC 167IT Essentials: PC Hrdwre & Softwre

3

Behavioral Science (3 credits required)

COMM 210Interpersonal Communications

3

CHRD 130Human Development

3

Social Science (3 credits required)

COMM 151Mass Comm and Culture

3

CHRD 104Social Diversity

3

Student Success (1 credit required)

SSS 100Student Success

1

SSS 101Online Seminar I

1

SSS 200Career Readiness

1

ENGL 101: Transferable to SD public universities.

Preparatory Courses

Some students may be required, depending upon placement test scores, to complete a preparatory course in math or English before enrolling in degree-level courses.