Linked Courses: A Method to Reinforce Basic Skills

Abstract

The authors report on an innovative learning community model in which two skills courses (introductory computer and library science) were linked with a content course (introductory economics). The primary link among the courses was the coordinated assignments that required the students to use all their skills in all three courses. Results indicate that the entering freshmen enrolled in the linked courses achieved the same level of mastery as did the more experienced students in the traditional sections. Attitudinal data indicate that the students felt that the linked courses enhanced learning and provided a supportive transition to college life. Finally, the faculty appreciated the opportunity to learn from each other and to experiment with teaching methods.