Integrative Learning and Today’s College Student – Guest Blogger: Daniel Ware
May 5, 2009
The landscape at the University of Alabama is a testament to the concept of “integrative learning,” and the University’s Quad exhibits this quality. Whereas one half of the area is open, the other half is tree-filled and covered with shade and benches. This is the formula for the perfect student experience, in which, the tree-covered area can be seen as the student’s academic life, and the open side as their extra-curricular endeavors.
Integrative learning is an interdisciplinary process involving student activity both in and outside the classroom. In an academic setting, students are required to attend classes ranging from forty people to over four hundred people; all of whom are watching a powerpoint presentation or listening to an impersonal lecture. However, there must be a manner in which to convey knowledge that is captivating and stimulating to a student that compels them to engage their studies in a fun and informative manner- enter OrgSync.
OrgSync is a new and revolutionary online tool for the total management of student organizations and their members. OrgSync incorporates integrative learning techniques to continue what academia begins, but further helps student organizations effectively communicate, and especially in the campus residence halls.
As an example, take the Blount Undergraduate Initiative at the University of Alabama,which is a living-learning community that houses its scholars. Blount is not just a residence hall, it is also an academic building with classrooms on the first floor where Blount scholars go for their foundational courses. One professor, and all of the Teaching Assistants/Graduate students involved in those classes live in Blount, so at any point in the day, students can go to their instructors and ask questions. Not only are students afforded the ability to have open and personal dialogue with their professors, but the students are also encouraged to socialize and foster discussion among themselves for a fully integrated approach. Academic or recreational topics are welcome in a large open forum known as the “Lobby,” and this peer-to-peer learning can be observed on a daily basis.
Having an area where everyone in the community can come together and collaborate allows for the furthering of knowledge in an otherwise social setting. Alex Wilson, a resident of Blount, said, “Living in Blount—a living-learning community—has deepened my understanding and furthered my studies of all things academic; in turn, I am made aware of world events, politics, and other activities that exist outside the classroom. This knowledge makes me a better-rounded student.”
Implementing the organizational measures of OrgSync for student interest groups on the campus of UA furthers the communication between these groups and the faculty. Open communication increases the effectiveness of organizations such as the Blount program, and facilitates an integrative learning experience.
