Harper College will be closed Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day.
Imagine a group of like-minded students, all enrolled in the same classes and connected by a common theme. In these communities, faculty and students come together to explore different subjects, build valuable connections, and expand their understanding of diverse perspectives. Collaborative and experiential learning take center stage, enhancing the overall educational experience.
"Being in a Learning Community is interesting because you hear different perspectives at the same time about the same subject."
"In a Learning Community you make friends, life-long friends, while working together and making it a really great experience!"
"In my Harper College learning community, I found that my algebra class helped me understand mathematical concepts, which sometimes connected to the broader themes and critical thinking exercises in my First Year Seminar (FYS) course. Although the FYS class covered various topics, recognizing these connections helped reinforce my learning."
Research conducted by the National Resource Center for Learning Communities has shown that participating in a learning community can lead to higher grades, faster friendships, and increased graduation rates.
By being part of a learning community, both faculty and students embark on a journey of discovery together. This closer connection allows for successful learning strategies to be developed collaboratively, resulting in improved academic performance. Students benefit from increased comfort in seeking guidance from faculty, which leads to a deeper understanding of the subject matter. With these communities, students have the chance to hone their skills, gain confidence in exploring complex issues, and develop critical thinking abilities.
To learn more about Learning Communities, speak to your academic advisor or contact the Office of Interdisciplinary Programs.