A Learning Community gives a student the advantages of a small college learning environment with the resources of a major research university.  In Learning Communities, small groups of students with similar interests work closely together in a “community of learners.” Students, along with advanced student mentors and a faculty advisor, study, socialize and problem-solve together.  

A Learning Community MUST address the following:

• Having clearly delineated academic and social goals,
• Involving faculty and academic staff,
• Having the support of the responsible administrative unit(s),
• Having a well thought-out plan to assess the achievement of both the academic and social goals.
  

In the 2007-2008 Learning Communities, emphasis will be placed upon programs that address one or more of the following:

• Programs for first-year FTIAC’s that facilitate the students’ integration into the University community and enhance their likelihood for success.
• Programs that address the needs of part-time and/or commuting students.
• Programs for upper division students based on the declared major.

Continued emphasis will be placed upon programs that address the following:

• Programs that include a residential component.
• Programs that promote enhanced success of students in under-represented groups.

Learning Community Basic Characteristics:

• Organizing students and faculty into smaller groups
• Encouraging integration of the curriculum
• Helping students establish academic and social support networks
• Providing a setting for students to be socialized to the expectations of college
• Bringing faculty together in more meaningful ways
• Focusing faculty and students on learning outcomes
• Providing a setting for community-based delivery of academic support programs
• Offering a critical lens for examining first year experience

“Creating Learning Communities – A Practical
Guide to Winning Support, organizing for Change,
and Implementing Programs,” Nancy Shapiro and Jodi Levine, 1999, Josey-Bass Inc., San Francisco

Goals:

• Students are not “anonymous” but rather feel part of a community that cares about them and supports them.
• Students develop a strong sense of commitment to their academic pursuits.
• Students learn about the university and its resources, and they access the resources they need to be successful.
• Students who are having difficulty are identified early and are encouraged to get the help they need. 

Outcomes:

• High student achievement
• High student satisfaction
• Increased student retention
  

Our Commitment……..

Learning-focused, Community-centered