Learning Communities

What is a learning community?

A learning community consists of a group of students who are enrolled in the same courses with the same instructors. Learning communities provide new curricular structures that link courses so that students have opportunities for deeper understanding and integration of the material they are learning, and more interaction with one another and their teachers as fellow participants in the learning experience.

What are the benefits of a learning community?

Students' benefit by finding greater coherence in what they are learning since learning communities encourage continuity and integration. Research suggests that students learn more from courses that are integrated in a community than they do in isolated courses. In a learning community, concepts and skills are consciously reinforced within the context of each course. Collaborative learning is encouraged.

Moreover, special services related to tutoring, advising and counseling are woven into the community. As a result, students begin to understand the relationships between course contents and to apply new concepts to skills. As students improve their skills, learning communities also help them build a sense of group identity. Belonging to a community of learners helps students feel that they are an important part of the fabric of the academic community. They form learning partnerships and support systems with each other, with faculty and with student support staff.

What is the difference between integrated learning communities and linked courses?

In an integrated learning community, two or more courses are joined as if they were one larger class. Classes are co-taught within the larger shared schedule of hours. Integrated learning communities usually use a theme, which allows for easier integration of the courses' curricula.

When courses are linked, the courses are taught separately, with one instructor teaching each course. However, the instructors meet outside of the class to coordinate their curricula.

Are there other models of Learning Communities?

Yes, there are many other models of Learning Communities that have not been offered as of yet at Northern Essex Community College. If you are interested in submitting a proposal for a different model Learning Community, please contact the LC Coordinator: Carolyn Cohen.

What are the professional development opportunities?

The Teaching and Learning Center provides written materials, the opportunity to attend Learning Community conferences and workshops, and monthly discussion groups for faculty who are teaching in Learning Communities.

In addition, faculty new to Learning Communities are required to participate in a series of professional development activities that relate to Learning Community pedagogy.

For more information, please contact the LC Coordinator: Carolyn Cohen (978-556-3541).

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