When you think of the 1920s, you think flappers, prohibition and residential learning communities. Residential learning communities? Well, maybe not, but what began as a shared idea of two innovative educators 80 years ago has become a nationwide trend in higher education.

John Dewey of the University of Chicago and Alexander Miekljohn of the University of Wisconsin believed students would best succeed when learning went beyond the classroom and connected with their social experiences. Their vision has become Ohio University's reality.

Residential Learning Communities give first-year students the advantages of a small college atmosphere, while providing the opportunities of Ohio University's large campus culture. Students take classes in common, get to know each other quickly, form study groups, and participate in out-of-class activities together. The program has grown considerably since Residence Life, University College and Housing first collaborated to create it five years ago. The pilot program offered six communities and served 96 students, then; now, there are 21 learning communities serving more than 300 students campus wide.