Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: This paper makes the argument that the current issues facing college students today may be best addressed through the systematic assessment of the interconnections between student engaged learning, student mental health and well-being, and civic development. Previous research has eluded to the benefits of these connections but has failed to specifically address linkages across all three. This paper uses both quantitative and qualitative data drawn from two consecutive cohorts of first-year students within and outside a learning community program to assess the impact of this engaged learning program on student mental health and well-being, and civic development. Additionally, different types of learning communities are also analyzed to see how nuances in engaged learning initiatives may further impact these connections.