Persistence and opportunity: Leveraging Living Learning Communities to ensure equitable access for all students

The present literature review explores research on characteristics of effective Living Learning Communities as a means to inform the continued development of a new LLC at Cleveland State University, a large urban, Predominately White University (PWU). Research on retention and persistence is explored with respect to students’ strengths and developmental prerequisites, rather than having a hyper-focus on deficits in effort to inform the continued development of an LLC at Cleveland State University. The objective is to create an LLC that showcases a balanced approach, where students’ needs are addressed while helping them realize and harness their individual strengths for success in college and beyond. Research regarding the perspectives of students who attended LLCs at PWUs as well as short and long-term outcomes for students in terms of persistence, retention, GPA, and future projections, in order to develop a successful LLC, is reviewed.

Validation and Living Learning Communities: An Evaluation Case Study

In this program evaluation study, we analyzed the impact of interpersonal validation and participation in living-learning communities (LLC) on retention and GPA via regression and propensity score matching. The LLCs were designed to improve outcomes for underrepresented, low-income and first-generation students at a Midwestern regional public university. Employing data from the widely used Mid-Year Student Assessment™, we created a validation score. This student validation score was significantly associated with retention in semester three, and third semester and sixth semester GPA. In the matched pair analyses, we found mixed results with significantly improved retention for participants in just one LLC compared to their matched peers, and significantly improved GPA for a combined group of LLC participants.

Examining Growth Outcomes of a Recreational Sports Living–Learning Community Using the Social Change Model of Leadership Development

Living learning communities (LLCs) add to the college student experience. The current study investigates academic and personal growth in a recreational sports–themed LLC intentionally built on student development theories. Surveys were administered to all students in the community at two time points across 2 years. Students in the program showed significant growth in leadership skills and grade point average.