Best Practices: Point University

Although strengths are being implemented into the first-year program at Point University (formerly Atlanta Christian College) this fall, the majority of the strengths material has been part of the nontraditional program at Point University. Even though the traditional student is a major focus at Point University, the launch of the new adult program in June 2008 was the perfect opportunity to begin strengths discovery on our campus.

The week before class starts, students are introduced to the strengths concepts and given the StrengthsQuest textbook at orientation. They are asked to begin their homework, and week one requires that they complete the StrengthsQuest assessment and answer evaluation questions. These questions capture the students' personal feelings about their strengths and their family members' thoughts.

During the first night of class in Introduction to Adult Learning, strengths concepts are explained in detail. The students are then required to complete reading assignments throughout the StrengthsQuest text. Each class explores strengths within the context of the source material -- how strengths are applied in career, academics, and in life. Multiple activities are completed in class each night so students can begin the developmental phase of the strengths journey. By the end of the class, the students understand all 34 themes and can give examples of their use in everyday life. Additionally, students begin to comprehend the connections between various themes and how those differ from person to person -- they understand the unique qualities of each person and his or her strengths. Finally, students complete the class by writing a paper detailing the beauty of their strengths, an assignment inspired by the article by Chip Anderson, Ph.D., "The Genius and Beauty of Strengths."

Many of the adult students had life events interrupt their education; for some, this was the reason they were unable to complete their education. The final paper -- on the beauty of their strengths -- is often an emotional assignment for students and instructors as the students finally are able to embrace the talents they have been given. With this knowledge, the students feel equipped to proceed with their chosen program knowing that they can and will be successful.

Throughout the remainder of the adult program, strengths are woven into the curriculum. Curriculum developers receive additional training with StrengthsQuest so they can incorporate strengths material into each modular syllabus. Each instructor is also given the assessment, the textbook, and strengths training so they can effectively incorporate strengths into the class material. With these additional opportunities to further develop the strengths concepts, students see their talents reinforced throughout their program at Point University.

It is our hope and desire that students discover, develop, and apply their strengths at Point University so that they can leave our institution and pass along the strengths material to those within their circles at work, at home, and in the community.