A Place-based Learning Community: Klamath Connection at Humboldt State University (Johnson et al., 2017)

The article describes the design, implementation, and initial assessment of a place-based learning community called Klamath Connection at a US state university. The program aimed to improve the academic performance and retention of first-time STEM majors, many of whom come from distant urban areas and underrepresented backgrounds. The Klamath Connection integrated four high-impact practices – a summer immersion, freshman year seminar, modified gateway courses, and peer mentoring – around an interdisciplinary theme focused on the local Klamath River basin. Initial assessment suggests the program strengthened students’ sense of belonging and their academic integration, though recruiting more representative demographics remains a challenge.

Johnson, M., Sprowles, A., Overeem, K., & Rich, A. (2017). A Place-Based Learning Community: Klamath Connection at Humboldt State University. Learning Communities: Research & Practice, 5(2). https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1163112