STEP/STEM Learning Communities

Students in the STEP program must register for one of the following learning communities. (Click here for information on what a learning community is?)  Case-by-case Exceptions:  If you are a dual enrollment student (i.e. you attended AASU while still in high school) who has already taken some of the required LC courses, are an honors student taking 1-2 science or math honors courses or have placed out of an LC course by AP exam, we will examine your schedule on a case by case basis.  The learning communities are the minimum requirements for STEP students, being above any of these requirements will not disqualify you from the program.

Biology, Psychology, Pre-Med, Pre-Vet students

Freshman Learning Community 7

How And Why We Live

This Learning Community will combine different ways of looking at life on our planet. The science of Biology (which literally means "talking about life") allows us to analyze the complexity of life in all its parts. The science of  Psychology (which literally means "talking about actions, thoughts, and feelings"), allows us to examine the complexities of animal and human behavior.  Biology 1107 introduces students to fundamental principles shared among all living organisms.  Equally important, the course emphasizes how biologists use the scientific method to investigate and understand the biosphere. Psychology 1101 introduces students to the various factors that influence the behavior and adjustment of humans and animals.  Importantly, the course emphasizes how psychologists use the scientific method to understand behavior ranging from the most basic (e.g., the eye blink) to the most complex (e.g., war and peace). Through The University Experience, students will learn how to successfully navigate the AASU campus, with additional emphasis on career opportunities and current issues in the biological and psychological sciences. The classes may be supplemented by film screenings, invited speakers, symposia and nearby excursions. This learning community is part of the university's effort to increase the success rates for science and math majors at AASU.

Chemistry, Computer Science, Information Technology, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering

Freshman Learning Community  8

Chemistry + Math = Success

This learning community is specifically designed for students who are considering or have decided to pursue a major in chemistry, physics, pre-pharmacy, pre-medical studies, pre-dental studies, mathematics, engineering and students who wish to become secondary science or math teachers.  The learning community includes the chemistry and the math course appropriate for you, based on your previous experience with chemistry and math and your SAT score.  You will take either CHEM 1211, Principles of Chemistry I OR CHEM 1212H, Honors General Chemistry  AND either MATH 1111, College Algebra, Math 1113 Pre-Calculus Mathematics OR MATH 1161, Calculus I.  Through The University Experience, students will learn how to successfully navigate the AASU campus, with additional emphasis on career opportunities and current issues in the sciences.  Chemistry courses will have hands-on research experiences and the math courses will have the best instructors to help you navigate the often difficult concepts in new and different ways.

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last updated: 04/22/09