Developing Learning Communities in Health and Human Performance

Abstract

Learning communities in health and human performance are creative approaches to traditional academic outcomes. Learning communities are becoming increasingly widespread in a variety of contexts, and there is extensive evidence suggesting that effective learning communities have important benefits for students as well as faculty. In this article, three successful learning communities in health and human performance are described, each of which linked two courses around a common theme. Following a general description of learning communities, the “Community Wellness,” “Lifelong Wellness,” and “Healthy Youth” communities are described in detail, and evaluative data are presented. Results of student perception surveys indicated that students were generally satisfied with the program; it promoted interaction among them; it encouraged meaningful communication between them and the instructor; it deepened their learning; and it helped them feel a sense of community. We conclude with recommendations to facilitate success and plans for future research.