Whitecaps Learning Communitieslearning

Whitecaps Learning Communities are groups of interconnected courses designed around a central theme. Imagine taking several classes that build on each other, all in the same classroom with the same classmates. While each course will have its own dedicated professor, bringing their expertise to the table, some readings, assignments, or big questions will connect your learning community classes together.
 

Whitecaps Learning Communities are designed to be interactive and student centered, helping you better connect to the content, your peers, and Galveston College resources. In learning communities we provide you with a support network that includes:

  • Personalized academic advising, tailored to your major; 
  • Guided access to resources that will assist you in achieving your academic goals; 
  • Linked courses, allowing you to make connections across course content; 
  • Collaborative classroom environments with more opportunities to build community with peers; 
  • A focus on growth mindset and nurturing your identity as a learner. 

Additionally, only students participating in Whitecaps Learning Communities get to enroll in FYEX- 0001—the WAVE course (Whitecaps Academic Vision of Excellence). This free course helps you learn about yourself, explore your interests, and build a personalized education plan focused on helping you achieve your goals.

Whitecaps Learning Communities:

  • Build support networks. Interactive, collaborative classes help you get to know your classmates, your professors, your academic advisors, and others around the college who are dedicated to student success.
  • Accelerate credit accumulation. Part-time students who successfully complete learning community courses in fall and spring semesters will have completed 15 college credits, meaning they’re on-track to complete their AA/AAS degree in four years. Full-time students, will enroll in a few additional classes each semester to complete their degrees in two years. Summer school classes help accelerate degree completion even more!
  • Leverage campus resources. Galveston College offers many resources to help you overcome obstacles and succeed. In learning communities you'll not only learn about resources, you'll have the opportunity to use campus resources through guided support.
  • Cultivate a growth mindset. Mindset matters, and if you believe you're capable of learning and improving, you are more likely to put in the effort needed to be successful. Learning communities will help you develop a growth mindset and develop the habits needed to be successful in college and beyond.

If you’re new to Galveston College, or just starting classes, then Whitecaps Learning Communities are for you!

We currently have learning communities tailored to students majoring in the Arts & Humanities pathway (i.e., General Studies-AA, Art, Drama/Theater, Criminal Justice, English, Health & Physical Education, History, Political Science/Government, Psychology, Sociology, or Speech Communication). Future learning communities are being planned for STEM, Business, and Education majors.

Make an appointment with your Galveston College Academic Advisor. They can help determine if you’re eligible, and find a Whitecaps Learning Community that’s right for your needs and schedule.

If you’re interested in teaching a course as part of a learning community, contact Janene Davison.

Course Catalog Information

Questions? Contact Us.

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