Education Commons^™

What Are Student And Staff Perspectives On The Influence Of Smaller Learning Communities On Sense Of Belonging And Academic Achievement?, Natalie A. Saiz

Teacher Education, Educational Leadership & Policy ETDs

ABSTRACT

In an era of educational reform, schools face the significant challenge of increasing academic achievement. Learning Communities have emerged as a method of school reform with some research suggesting their link to increasing academic achievement and personalizing learning environments. Using individual and focus group interviews, this qualitative case study examines the use of Learning Communities as a reform initiative at a high school in New Mexico to facilitate a stronger sense of belonging among students and to provide individualized guidance, tracking, and support. Findings on the influence of Learning Communities are presented: addition of Advisory/Advisor which provides academic assistance, …