Such an enterprise is not easy to pursue, since our politicians rarely speak of it, our technology is indifferent to it, and our commerce despises it. Nonetheless, it is the weightiest and most important thing to write about. We have an interest in using the Institute model to develop a holistic view of education that will enable us to use learning communities, linked courses, flavored courses and coordinated studies. A learning community is an interdisciplinary system of learners working together. We think that the following are essential ingredients if learning communities are to succeed.
Learners are students and faculty.
Outcomes are authentic, project-based. The hands on experiences are interesting, stimulating and exciting. Learning is real and it is retained because it is used in context by the learner. A learning community has a meaning and life of its own. At Moorpark College we have added one additional characteristic.