ESTABLISHING A RESIDENTIAL LEARNING COMMUNITY IN THE EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Residential learning communities (RLCs) are effective tools for establishing connections between students, faculty, and administration. Students participating in an RLC are grouped according to common theme- or topic-based interests and live together in campus residence halls. These student focus groups work closely with faculty and staff on academic, social, and outreach programs designed to increase interest and awareness in the designated theme. Studies of RLCs implemented in a wide variety of colleges and university settings demonstrate that these programs successfully foster the development of leadership, social, and academic skills in student participants. The well-established Honors's RLC at PACIFIC is a perfect example of how such programs can increase social and academic development. The Honors RLC brings together first and second year honors students in a single residence hall. Their participation in the Honors RLC provides education experiences for the whole person outside of the classroom. We successfully adapted the Honors RLC model to the new Residence for Earth and Environmental Living and Learning (REELL) at PACIFIC. The REELL group for the 2008-2009 academic year included 16 freshmen, a junior peer advisor, and a senior residential advisor from a wide range of degree programs. These students participated in REELL activities, include weekly meetings, sponsored movies, guest speakers, field trips, and outreach activities. These activities are arranged around a yearlong research project that is designed and implemented by the student participants. We will use examples from the REELL community at PACIFIC to present a framework for establishing a successful Earth and Environmental Science RLC. As with the Honors community, the preliminary results of the 2008-2009 REELL community suggests that it will be an effective tool for increasing interest and participation in Earth and Environmental Science courses and programs.