Definitions

1. Spiritual Development
   Students will develop competence in Bible reading, understanding of Christian theology, and growth in Spirit-filled living. Such growth is not necessarily linear but is dynamic (i.e., changing) as a result of one's changing faith in the Words and Promises of God.
2. Communications Skills
   Students will develop the ability to read a variety of texts with both comprehension and critical interaction, write effectively for a variety of purposes and audiences, speak to a group intelligently and with confidence, and listen with both discernment and empathy.
3. Problem-Solving Skills
   Students will develop the ability to identify a problem, restate the problem in their own words, analyze the information given, research the background of the problem and possible existing solutions, obtain needed information, state possible solution strategies, choose an appropriate solution strategy and implement it, evaluate results of the implementation, select a different solution strategy if necessary, and implement it until a solution is found. Also, the student will develop the ability to synthesize the solution to the problem in the surrounding context and make recommendations based on the solution.
4. Cultural Understanding
   Students will develop an awareness and appreciation of, and sensitivity toward the similarities and differences of individuals, groups, and societies over time and through cultural expression.
5. Scientific Literacy
   Students will develop an awareness of (a) the nature of science and scientific practices; (b) the theories current in scientific disciplines such as psychology, physics, biology, and chemistry, including knowledge of ecology and the human body; and (c) the limits of science. Students will also develop the ability to employ fundamental mathematical concepts in scientific work, and critically examine and analyze scientific claims and theories.
6. Numeracy
   Students will develop the ability to understand, analyze and solve mathematical problems and present the solutions in an appropriate manner, as well as an understanding of mathematics as a self-contained field of inquiry and as a fundamental tool for other scientific disciplines.
7. Physical Discipline
   Students will develop the ability to use sport and physical activity for fitness, stress reduction, recreation and leisure, both alone and in a social setting. Considerations include students' appreciation of their God-given talents and abilities and various activities related to physical wellness.
8. Aesthetic Sensibility
   Students will develop the ability to perceive, understand, and respond to all elements of human experience and existence. Aesthetic behavior explores our everyday experience of beauty and ugliness, order and chaos, symbolism and allusion, creativity and communication. Such experience occurs through traditional art forms such as visual art, literature, music and theater. It may also occur in our perception of God's creation and in areas of human activity not traditionally associatedwith the arts which could include the natural sciences, religion, and athletics. Thus an understanding of aesthetic behavior is important for all people in that it goes beyond "art appreciation" to include a heightened awareness of the ways aesthetic elements convey meaning and an enhanced understanding of both natural and artificial features of the world.
9. Citizenship
   Students will develop an understanding of the terms, concepts, and ideas that explain political and economic systems in the United States and abroad, and apply this knowledge to fulfill and appreciate their duties, obligations, and functions as Christian citizens in a complex nation and world.