Themed Learning Communities 

Typically, a TLC consists of two or three courses taken in conjunction in order to examine a common theme across disciplines like the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Faculty members create assignments that require students to draw on concepts from the other TLC classes for an enhanced, integrative learning experience.

Students in Themed Learning Communities are able to build intellectual and social relationships with fellow TLC classmates through common interests and increased time together. 

TLCs give students the opportunity to engage deeply with a course theme, connect learning across courses in collaborative and active ways, develop relationships with peers/faculty, and ease the transition into college.

The Facts:

• Courses are small, not exceeding more than 25 students and requiring co-enrollment in all courses linked in the TLC. 
• Each course in the learning community reinforces a common theme through the integration of assignments, readings, and activities.
• TLC instructors receive additional professional development opportunities.  They are also required to meet with one another on a regular basis to ensure theme integration across the curriculum.

Support:

• Professional development opportunities
• Program Support for field trips and other engaged learning activities
• Opportunity to work with faculty from different fields

For more information, please contact: Dr. Julia Spears at 753-8152 or jspears1@niu.edu.