Q: What are Learning Communities?

A: Learning Communities are groups of students who take two or three classes together. The classes may be designed around a unifying theme or, as in the case of courses in specialized majors, based on courses that reinforce the students’ special needs or requirements. Students who take two or three courses together often get to know each other and the professors better. This often enhances learning.

Q. What makes a Learning Community different from a regular course?

A. A Learning Community is comprised of two or three courses that are linked together. Students who take one course are automatically registered for another. The instructors who teach these courses overlap course material so that concepts are introduced in both courses, in the context of varied disciplines. For many students, this approach helps facilitate better understanding of course material.

Q. Is a Learning Community harder or more work?

A. Not necessarily. Participation in a Learning Community will count as two courses, the same as taking two regular, unlinked courses. The Learning Communities with honors designations are more work, however.

Q. Why should I take a learning community?

A. Being part of a learning community is fun: you get to know a group of students and a pair of professors very well. Students in learning communities combine their learning strengths, and because the courses are linked, they understand the course material more deeply and from more perspectives.

Q. Who can take a learning community?

A. If you are in your first or second semester at Queensborough and your placement test results make you eligible for English 101, you should definitely consider being part of a Learning Community. If you need Basic Skills courses in Reading or Writing, or if you need MA-005, take advantage of the Learning Communities for Basic Skills students and the linked courses for Basic Skills students.

Q. How do I register?

A. You should register for a Learning Community like you would any other course: online or in-person at the Office of Academic Advisement (L-434) or Office of Coordinated Undergraduate Education (A-504). Academic Advisors and administrators are available to provide you with information and help you choose which Learning Community is best for you.

Q. When should I register?

A. Register as soon as possible, because there is a limited number of learning communities available for the fall semester.
     A “Learning Community” is a group of students who take two or three courses together. The faculty of these courses work together and structure their courses to reflect a common theme. When participating in a Learning Community, you will find that the courses share common assignments, common readings, and offer an opportunity for student involvement in joint projects, thereby assisting the students in their adjustment to college life.
     During the Fall, 2005 semester, Queensborough invites all incoming students to participate in one of eighteen Learning Communities. Whether you start in basic skills courses or in regular college courses, whether you’re not yet enrolled in a degree program of study or a returning student working toward a degree, we have a Learning Community for you! Each Learning Community this Fall will consist of two or three courses and enroll no more than 25 students. The communities will address these topics, among others:
     Remember, college is an important time in your life. The ultimate goal of Learning Communities is to give you the opportunity to develop a close relationship with other students and the faculty. These communities will not only provided you with the intellectual tools you need to enhance your success here at QCC, but they might also make your transition to College easier and more enjoyable.
     To learn more, please contact the Office of Academic Advisement, Department of Student Affairs, Library Building Room 434, (718) 631-6329 or the Office of Coordinated Undergraduate Education, Department of Academic Affairs, Administration Building Room 504, (718) 281-5468.

Q. What are the requirements to enroll?

A. You must enroll in both classes. Be aware of the prerequisites as outlined in the course catalogue. Check the registration guide for specific information.

Q. Who may I contact if I have specific questions?

A. You may contact the instructors who are scheduled to teach the courses. You may also contact Mr. Brian Kerr, Director of Academic Advisement, in L-434, (718) 281-0000, and at BKerr@qcc.cuny.edu

You may also contact Dr. Michael Roggow, Director of Coordinated Undergraduate Education, at A-504, and at MRoggow@qcc.cuny.edu