Learning Communities
What is a learning community?
Scholars at Newman University know that when you pair two or more courses in different subjects, amazing things happen: a community of learners forms that engages relevant and meaningful material. This coming school year, Newman freshmen will join a Learning Community and encounter exciting connections. Studying the links between diverse subjects, you'll bond with other classmates and create a community of active learners. You'll take a freshman seminar along with another course or two. A student facilitator will help orient you to university life. You and your professors will ask questions and discover answers together. The community you'll help to create will provide the tools you'll need to succeed.
Questions about learning communities? See if our Frequently Asked Questions have the answer or for more information contact the Office of Academic Affairs at: 316-942-4291 ext. 2127.
"The experience I had with my freshman learning community was one that I will treasure. I learned valuable life skills in honest communication with others, I was challenged to think in novel ways, and I saw how connected my knowledge base really is. Relevant and impactful, I wouldn't trade my learning community for any random selection of classes. The community is what made the learning so much more meaningful."
– Caitlyn Maksymiak
"I would strongly recommend learning communities for any student at Newman. I feel that a learning community is a great way for new students to find other students on campus studying the same material. It is a wonderful opportunity to gain confidence in learning new material and to build a strong relationship with other students on campus. It was definitely one of the best experiences I had during my four years at Newman."
– Heather Ranney, Class of 2012
Building Just Communities
"I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together." – Martin Luther King, Jr.
How do we build just communities?
How do we sustain them?
Through writing and a service project at a local non-profit organization of your choice, we will engage in a process of reflection and action aimed at leading to personal and social growth, aligned with Newman's mission of empowering graduates to transform society. This Learning Community includes 30 hours of active off-campus service learning - so get ready to roll up your sleeves!
Courses
| ENGL 1003 College Writing 1 – Marguerite Regan, Ph.D. |
| HUMS 4801 Service Option – Rosemary Niedens, M.S. |
| GNST 1001 Traditions and Transitions |
Lab Rat Pack
Science students, whether you are biology, chemistry or biochemistry majors, whether you dream of a career in the medical sciences or research lab, you will all share a common first year experience.
You all spend a lot of time in lab. A lot of time. You will use this time and this Learning Community to form study groups and begin the scientific dialogue among peers. You'll pair a lab in biology or chemistry with a freshman seminar to ensure a running start at a challenging and exciting curriculum.
Courses
| BIOL 1011 General Biology Lab – Various instructors |
| CHEM 1012 General Chem Lab – Various instructors |
| GNST 1001 Traditions and Transitions |
Playwrights and Performers
Get behind the scenes and explore your dramatic side.
You don't have to be an actor to enjoy the theatre and its rich heritage. This Learning Community combines Intro to Theatre with a freshman seminar to begin an interactive exploration of the history of the theatre by engaging with some of the great plays produced by the Greeks, Shakespeare and beyond. Since you won't be satisfied to only read about the theatre, you'll also have the opportunity to get behind the scenes of one of NU's productions in the fall.
Courses
| THTR 1043: Introduction to Theatre – Mark Mannette, M.F.A. |
| GNST 1001: Traditions and Transitions |
Reacting to the Past
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be the emperor of China or to try to persuade your friends and neighbors to revolt against the British? Join our Learning Community and find out.
By using role-playing experiences you'll develop a deep understanding of the ideas and personalities that shaped the world in which you live. At the same time, you'll develop your critical thinking skills as well as your ability to speak and write persuasively. Join us and take a hands-on approach to learning world history while forging an emotional and personal connection to the past.
Courses
| HIST 1023 World Civilization 2 - Kelly McFall, Ph.D. |
| COMM 1013 Oral Communication – Audrey Curtis Hane, Ph.D. |
The Art of Civilization
From the pyramids to Picasso, from Greek sculpture to Calder's mobiles, human creativity serves to reflect and define distinct points in human history.
This Learning Community combines Art Appreciation and World Civilization I. Our challenge will be to explore these two disciplines to investigate the Human Story as revealed by the Creative Spirit. Expect a field trip or two and prepare to make history through your own creativity.
Courses
| ART 1013 Art Appreciation – Mary Werner, M.F.A. |
| HIST 1013 World Civilization I – Cheryl Golden, Ph.D. |
| GNST 1001 Traditions and Transitions |
Philosophers, Smart Phones and PowerPoint
Experience an entrepreneurial adventure!
Learn basic business fundamentals and principles, entrepreneurial know-how, and communication strategy. You'll study the thinking of some of the most effective philosophers and achievers of all time and apply their principles to real-life business solutions. This Learning Community is recommended for business majors and anyone interested in exploring business courses.
Courses
| BSAD 1043 Foundations of Business Thought – Vicki Bergkamp, ASC, Ph.D |
| GNST 1001 Traditions and Transitions |