What are the benefits of Fresh Connections Learning Communities?

• The Design of a Learning Community:
  • Provides a conveniently scheduled "package" of classes appealing to particular interests
  • Students are enrolled in courses with other students who have similar interests
  • Close collaboration among students and faculty
  • The learning process is strengthened through peer support and faculty interactions
  • Allows for career exploration
  • Promotes active learning
• Based on successful learning communities at similar universities, Fresh Connections is structured to improve:
  • oral and written communication skills
  • increase student participation in the academic process
  • foster interaction with other students and faculty
  • improve teamwork skills
• Fresh Connections provides students the opportunity to study with some of the most distinguished faculty at the University of Memphis.

Statistics on Fresh Connections Learning Communities

• When compared to students not in a learning community, students in the Fresh Connections learning communities are:
  • More successful in ENGL 1010 - English Composition I
  • More engaged in the learning process
  • More connected to faculty and other students
  • Likely to earn more academic credit in the first semester
  • More likely to be successful in other first semester courses
• Students in the Fresh Connections Learning Communities report more involvement in:
  • Class presentations
  • The writing process resulting in increased confidence
  • Integration of ideas and information into their work
• Compared to students not in a learning community, students in the Fresh Connections learning communities generally have a higher success rate and a higher first semester GPA.
• Overall, course success (measured by a grade of C or better) are consistently higher for learning community students.

Students are making Connections and getting a Fresh start at the University of Memphis!