Two reasons for these restructuring efforts seem to be increased student learning and retention. Students are more involved. It affects their social and academic lives, enhancing both through a supportive community of peers sharing learning. 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.