Learning Community
Learning Communities bring people together for shared learning, discovery,
and the generation of knowledge. Within a learning community, all participants
take responsibility for achieving the learning goals. Importantly, learning
communities are the process by which individuals come together to achieve
learning goals. These learning goals can be specific to individual courses
and activities, or can be those that guide an entire teaching and learning
enterprise.
The following four core ideas define the learning community process:
Shared discovery and learning. Collaborative learning activities where participants share responsibility for the learning that takes place help develop a learning community. Rather than relying on traditional “expert centered” lecture formats, instructors should include collaborative learning techniques so learners can see their contribution to the learning goals.
Functional connections among learners. Learning communities develop when the interactions among learners are meaningful: when they are functional and necessary for the accomplishment of the "work" within the courses or learning activities (rather than serving as “window dressing” or simply as a “feel good” activities). Moreover, meaningful connections must extend throughout the learning community—among students, postdocs, faculty, and staff—rather than simply among cohort- or role-related peers.
Connections to other related learning and life experiences. Learning communities flourish when implicit and explicit connections are made to experiences and activities beyond the course or program in which one participates at any given moment. These connections help situate one’s learning in a larger context by solidifying one’s place in the broader campus community of learners. These connections decrease one’s sense of curricular and personal isolation.
Inclusive learning environment. Learning communities succeed when the diverse backgrounds and experiences of learners are welcomed in such a way that they help inform the group’s collective learning. Whenever possible, activities should be sought that help participants reach out and connect with others from backgrounds different from their own.
We encourage you to discover more about learning community by participating
in Delta's programs, graduate courses, and internships.
Download
these Learning Community Guidelines in MS Word format...
Check out the WISCAPE Learning Community publication authored by Aaron Brower, Chris Carlson-Dakes, and Shihmei Barger.
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