The mission of Villanova University's learning communities is to enhance student learning by creating integrated learning experiences inside and outside of the classroom as students transition to college life. Learning communities have 3 main components, all of which will add to your experience as a First-Year Student at Villanova.
- The Augustine and Culture Seminar (ACS) is a discussion-based class with about 16 students in each. In this intimate setting, students read texts, engage in conversations about "big questions," and get to know each other and their professor. ACS focuses on the heart of human experience: Who Am I? What does it mean to be human? How should I interact with the world around me?
- Students in most of learning communities live together in one of the residence halls located on the South Campus. Because students are living and learning together, friendships form quickly and the students form a community that is uniquely strong. Learning community students often find "friends for life" in this first-year experience.
- Students select a theme that they'll explore as part of their learning community experience. The theme serves as the year-long focus of the learning community. The theme is explored in a one-credit discussion class that meets weekly in the residence hall.
The Faith and Reason Learning Community
The Faith and Reason Learning Community is sponsored by the Center and will be led by
Beth Hassel and Jonathan Yates.
We are particularly interested in creating dialogue among students who are open to exploring relationships, who see the college experience as an opportunity to learn not only about things, but themselves, each other, and how all of these relate to God.
More specifically, the Faith and Reason Learning Community will explore:
- the student's approach to the meaning of life
- the meaning of personal religious faith
- the theories of faith development
- the intersections between and among faith, academics and career aspirations
- the reciprocal roles of faith and meaning making
- how academics can enhance a holistic approach to ones life and vocation
