Students form learning communities at UC Houlton

HOULTON, Maine — As students settle into the semester at University of Maine System campuses statewide, parallel classes meet, study, take exams and hand in papers at University College Centers and sites across Maine. These learning communities are part of an emerging trend in higher education – students who are more often connected to each other by technology and interest than by time and space.
To engage these learners, University College at Houlton has re-configured classroom spaces to allow students to adapt readily to the task at hand. They might position the portable furniture for a study group, conference face-to-face or by video, demonstrate ideas online, or join a class taught by an instructor from across the state.
Whether a student hails from the next town or from a London flat, he or she is engaged with others and the instructor in exploration and discussion around a chosen subject. Experienced instructors select class technology to enhance communication and to encourage an open exchange of ideas.
“The students that come together in distance education courses bring with them diverse and rich experiences that enhance the learning experience for everyone,” said Chuck Ames, director of University College at Houlton. “Our role is to provide the services and support that make the Center a welcoming place for these learners, no matter where they live.”
For people just getting started in online courses, the Center offers instruction in all aspects of online learning, and students are welcome to use the Center’s computer lab if they don’t have a high-speed Internet connection at home.
According to Christine Merrill, a Center student enrolled in a UMA degree program, “The staff at the Center have been very helpful throughout my college career and I soon made friends just through study groups. These friendships do last through the years and help you through your college career, but also help you throughout your life.”
For more information about the courses, programs and services offered at the Center, please call 521-3100 or visit www.learn .maine.edu.