High Impact Practice
As part of the Honors Requirements, students are required to complete a High Impact Practice. High-Impact Practices (HIPs) are evidence-based, active teaching and learning experiences that require substantial time and effort, leading to improved student engagement, retention, and deep learning. The American Association of Colleges & Universities (AAC&U) has identified a number of HIPs that have been shown to benefit students significantly, expanding opportunities for student success. Students exposed to HIPs show deeper engagement with course material, higher levels of critical thinking, and improved learning outcomes.
What are Honors HIPs?
Honors HIPs are characterized by a set of key elements including high expectations, learning over an extended period of time, and opportunities to interact with faculty and other students, including frequent feedback. In addition, successful HIPs provide experiences with diversity, real world applications, and opportunities to present learning outcomes publically.
Student select their HIP from one of three areas or themes:
- Diversity and Global Learning (e.g. Honors Summer Study, FIE London Leadership, Other Study Abroad/Away programs)
- Community-Based/Service Learning (e.g. service-learning course, Alternative breaks program, independent study with a faculty)
- Undergraduate Research (e.g., faculty research, Honors Undergraduate Research Mentoring Program, BEACoN Research Scholars, Cal Poly Summer Undergraduate Research Program)
How do students complete an Honors HIP?
Students must complete at least 140 hours in their HIP experience for it to qualify for Honors credit. Students must also create a portfolio during their HIP experience. After completing their HIP, student enroll in HNRS 3361 where they share your experience with the Honors community.
