Portrait of a Learner

CREC’s Portrait of a Learner Competencies

Creators 

Learners as creators imagine possibilities and invent new things. Curiosity about the world drives their creative process. Their work can foster connections among people, enrich their world, and spark learning and joy. 

Creators are:

• Purposeful: having a goal and working hard to achieve it
• Curious: actively trying to learn and understand more about the world around them
• Activists: taking initiative to bring attention to issues they care deeply about
• Imaginative: using their creative minds to think of new and unique ideas

Creators use their vision and voice to influence the world in meaningful ways

---

Resilient 

Learners are resilient when they understand that growth happens through successes and failures. They bounce back from adversity and adapt to different situations. They create meaningful goals and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. 

Resilient learners demonstrate: 

• Adaptability: being able to change and adjust when things around you change 
• Growth: believing improvement happens when they embrace challenge, accept feedback, and seek inspiration 
• Perseverance: continuing to work towards a goal, even when things are difficult
• Optimism: having a positive and hopeful attitude    

 Resilient learners turn challenges into stepping stones for personal and academic growth.

---

Empathetic

Learners are empathetic when they care about others' feelings and experiences. They show kindness and compassion in their actions to help bring out the best in others. They value different perspectives and work with others to take action that makes a positive impact.

Empathetic learners demonstrate: 

• Open-Mindedness: appreciating new ideas and learning from different perspectives and experiences
• Collaboration: connecting and working with others toward a common goal
• Respect for Diversity: valuing and appreciating differences among people from various experiences, cultures, abilities, and/or perspectives 
• Positive Impact: taking action that reflects a commitment to equity, in order to make a kinder and more just world for everyone  

Empathetic learners build bridges that strengthen communities

---

Critical Thinkers:

Learners as critical thinkers seek solutions to problems. They ask questions. They utilize critical and creative thinking to tackle challenging tasks. They are lifelong learners. 

Critical Thinkers are: 

• Reflective: taking time to think carefully about information, actions, learning, and feedback
• Analytical: carefully examining information or situations in logical, detail-oriented ways
• Informed by evidence: basing ideas and decisions on facts, data, and proof, rather than on only opinions or assumptions
• Solution-Oriented: thinking of questions, ideas, and strategies that help solve challenges

 Critical thinkers apply insight and inquiry to make thoughtful, informed decisions

---