Overview

Estimated Time: 1 Class Period (50 Minutes)
Unit: College In Focus
Lesson: 2.1
Theme: Defining College – Part 1

Students discover that the word college encompasses a variety of postsecondary education and training options. Through collaborative research and group presentations, students investigate different types of postsecondary credentials, including apprenticeships, certificates, associate's degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and military education pathways. By comparing these options, students gain a broader understanding of the many educational pathways available to prepare for future careers.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson students will:

Explain that "college" includes a variety of postsecondary education and training pathways.
Research the characteristics of an assigned postsecondary credential.
Identify careers, costs, length of study, and educational opportunities associated with different credential types.
Present research findings and compare multiple postsecondary credential options.

Indiana Standards

PCC-3.1 – Explore a variety of postsecondary education and training opportunities.

PCC-3.3 – Compare postsecondary education and training options based on career goals.

PCC-4.2 – Develop and maintain a personal career portfolio.

PCC-6.3 – Research education and training requirements associated with careers.

PCC-6.5 – Evaluate education and training pathways that prepare individuals for career success.

Before You Begin:

Student Materials

Device with internet access
"Degree Options Research" sheet
Writing materials (pen or pencil)

Teacher Preparation

Print copies of the "Degree Options Research" sheet.
Prepare the Gimme Ten introductory activity.
Verify student access to the Learn More Indiana – College Discovery website.
Divide students into six research groups and assign each group a different postsecondary credential.
Review the different credential types so you are prepared to guide student research and answer questions.

Lesson Flow

Hook / Warm-Up (Gimme Ten Activity)
Mini Lesson: Defining "College"
Group Research on Postsecondary Credentials
Group Presentations and Class Discussion
Reflection on Postsecondary Pathways

Student Work Products

Students will complete:

"Degree Options Research" sheet
Group presentation on an assigned postsecondary credential

These artifacts become part of each student's Portfolio in Unit 3.

External Resources

Learn More Indiana – College Discovery (Degree Options)

Teacher Tips

Emphasize that the word "college" describes many different types of education and training opportunities, not just a traditional four-year university. Encourage students to look beyond the length of a program and consider the careers, costs, earning potential, and opportunities associated with each credential. As groups share their findings, help students compare the different pathways and recognize that multiple educational options can lead to successful careers.

Portfolio Connection

At the conclusion of this lesson, students should have:

Completed the "Degree Options Research" sheet.
Researched a postsecondary credential and shared their findings with classmates.
Recorded information about multiple postsecondary credential options.
Developed a broader understanding of the education and training pathways available to prepare for future careers.

Lesson 2.1 - Defining "College" - Part 1 Snapshot & Resources