A Freshman Learning Community (FLC) is a set of clustered courses linked by a theme and taken by the same cohort of freshmen. Some FLCs include a Freshman Seminar anchor course on the FLC theme, English Composition, and a core math or science class. Some FLCs link to a fourth or even fifth class. Faculty work together to create an integrated curriculum with some overlapping readings, discussions, and/or assignments. School-specific or major-specific FLCs vary more widely in their format, but they too ease the transition to college and provide community-building opportunities. In addition to specific course outcomes for for each linked course, all FLCs share the following general learning outcomes in the QEP targeted competencies:
Writing Learning Outcomes -- Students can
- Respond to an assigned topic.
- Write an essay that makes an unambiguous claim, is supported by reasonable and appropriate evidence, and is directed towards an identified audience.
- Incorporate relevant external sources and demonstrate academic integrity by documenting such sources accurately and appropriately.
- Exhibit competence in grammar, usage, and mechanics.
Quantitative Literacy Learning Outcomes -- Students can
- Use multiple formats, including verbal, symbolic, visual and numerical, to present information.
- Interpret mathematical representations, such as formulas, graphs, tables and diagrams, in order to draw valid inferences from them.
Ethics and Civic Responsibility Learning Outcomes -- Students can
- Accept and adhere to the UAB Academic Honor Code.
- Identify their rights and responsibilities as students in the university.
- Accept responsibility for the ethical consequences of personal choices, statements, and actions.
- Participate knowledgeably and respectfully in discussions about contemporary social, political, and ethical issues.
- Engage responsibly in social action, volunteer services, and/or civic activities.