Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q:         What are learning communities?

A:         The term learning communities refers to classes in which the subject matter and ways of investigating questions in two or more fields are integrated. The class may be designed around a unifying theme, based on courses that reinforce the students’ special needs. In principle, students learn from students and faculty and faculty learn from students and each other.

Q:         Does it transfer?

A:         Yes, your transcript will reflect courses in the learning communities program as two separate courses.

Q:         What are the requirements to enroll?

A:         You must enroll in both courses. The prerequisites are the same for each course separately. Check the College Catalog for prerequisite information.

Q:         Is it more difficult than a regular course?

A:         No, you will be required to do no more work than you would in tow separate classes. In fact, by connecting the courses, it may actually be easier to understand the material and both faculty tend to coordinate their homework assignments.

Q:         What’s different about a Learning Community?

A:         A Learning Community is an exciting way to take two classes that are linked around a common theme. Since you have two or more faculty teaching, you get differing points of view, which makes the class very stimulating.

Q:         How do I register?

A:         Learning Community courses are identified in the credit course schedule by a black dot before the listing and include a message to register for both courses. Registering for one of the courses usually means you are automatically registered for the other. For help, check with your counselor or academic advisor.

Q:         What about developmental learning communities?

A:         Because learning communities improve retention and foster skills that lead to college success, some Learning Communities at Cerritos College are designed specifically for students who test at basic skills level.

Q:         What do you mean by community?

A:         In a learning community, students are with the same group of students for more than one class period. This facilitates long lasting friendships as students support each other through the curriculum. Faculty also have the opportunity to spend more time with students as they become learners with the students. This type of community is based on mutual respect and goals for academic success.