They have more intellectual interaction with faculty, learn from diverse perspectives, and see an integration of knowledge. Students become more active learners which encourages class attendance and participation. Students typically improve their reading, writing, and thinking skills. Some schools have reported high retention rates for students involved in learning communities. A third reason seems to be faculty revitalization.
Faculty are very involved with students and the other members of the faculty team.
The coordinated studies effort at FSU began with the College of Arts and Sciences Diversity Counts group. It was supported by Dr. Sue Hammersmith, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. John Thorp, Social Sciences Department Head, and the Criminal Justice Program, College of Education. A number of faculty members were interested in this first effort, but were unable to participate due to other commitments. The team talked with faculty, administrators, and students. The team visited classes and gathered materials on coordinated studies programs, including syllabi, research papers on learning communities, and classroom ideas.