First Year Learning Communities

The first year experience at UW-Milwaukee is defined by connecting students both inside and outside of the classroom. It is the goal of the First Year Learning Communities (FYLC) to develop a learning environment that leads to academic success and stronger connections to campus for first semester students. The complete list of FYLCs will be availble on June 1, 2011. Students will receive a listing of the First Year Learning Communities at New Freshman Orientation, where they will have a chance to discuss the courses with an Academic Advisor.Due to the rich diversity of the UWM students, it is the goal to offer a variety of FYLC options.

Definition of a First Year Learning Community

Enroll only first-time freshmen.
Employ high impact practices, including a team approach with mentors, instructors and possibly advisors connecting with the course and student community.
Establish and assess common curricular and co-curricular learning outcomes for all First Year Learning Communities.

Types of First Year Learning Communities

First-Year Seminars- Smaller in size and broader in scope than most other courses, they are intended to enhance skills (inquiry and analysis, critical and creative thinking, oral and written communication) and engage students in reflection about the process of learning at the college level. More information can be found at here.
Intro to Profession- A course all students in a specific major or school/college are required to take their first semester. May introduce student to the discipline as well as the school/college expectations.
Living Learning Communities- Students take one or more courses together and live on a residence hall floor together. A separate process occurs for LLCs. For more information, see www.llc.uwm.edu.
First Year Impact Section- A freshman only section or lab in a larger lecture class.
Paired Courses- Two different courses with the same students and shared content.
Other- Current examples include Study Skills, Career Exploration, Financial Literacy, and Information Literacy.

Living Learning Communities (LLC)

What is an LLC?

An LLC is a group of students with a common interest that live on the same floor and take at least one class together. They are assigned a Resident Assistant and a mentor typically with the same major or interest. LLCs are available in Cambridge Commons, RiverView and Sandburg Halls. More information about the Residence Hall is available at www.UniversityHousing.uwm.edu.

When do LLCs occur?

LLC activities and classes occur throughout your first year at UWM. You have access to field trips, events, lectures and networking opportunities with faculty in addition to a smaller class size and more individual attention.

Why should I join an LLC?

Meet students with similar interests to study, eat and hang out
Get involved on campus and gain leadership experience
Meet a diverse group of students
Challenge yourself to learn more
Get to know faculty and staff
Apply what you’re learning in and outside of the classroom
Join study groups, receive additional tutoring and supplemental instruction
Increase service learning and volunteer opportunities
Learn more about topics of interest

Topics for 2011-2012 LLCs

American Sign Language
Architecture
Art & Design
Beyond Borders: International
Business Panthers
Community Leadership
Creating Your Future (undecided majors)
Crossroads: Literature & Music
Dance Foundations
Environmental Sustainability
Film, Video and New Genres
Helping Hands in Healthcare
Honors House
Innovation House for Computer Science & Engineering
International House
Lab Rats
Portuguese Language
Spanish Language
Writing and Visual Culture