Integrating learning and environmental sustainability in a living, learning community

Integrative learning in higher education is a rapidly developing area. At the University of South Carolina, a Living, Learning community led by a faculty principal is exploring new ways to connect students both within and beyond the classroom for the marine sciences. The Green Quad Living, Learning community has developed and implemented a co-curricular approach to marine science as part of the larger mission of educating residents on the environment and sustainability. Through the unique collaborations between two nationally recognized programs (University 101 and USC Connect), the Green Quad has become a leader in developing the Common Course program for marine science freshmen. We will illustrate the connections and lessons learned over the three year history of this program as well as future plans to grow the program.