Current national influences on education such as ever-increasing cultural diversity of students, high-stakes testing and national debates regarding immigration policy present unique challenges and opportunities for higher education faculty and students.  It is critical that both students and faculty be able to shape and participate in educational structures and activities that emphasize cooperation rather than competition and promote holistic learning.  Additionally, an influx of first-generation students means that some incoming students are not well versed in the workings of higher education environments. Pedagogies such as learning communities and cohort models help address these concerns. An example of an ideal learning community is presented, along with strategies for creating a stronger sense of community in any classroom.

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Author Bios:

Jesús Nieto teaches Introduction to Multicultural Education classes for future teachers at San Diego State University.  He is advisor to a number of SDSU student organizations including MEChA, Cambodian Student Association, Amnesty International and Heartprints.  Nieto is an activist regarding issues related to homelessness, war and peace, CIA abuses of power, and poor children in Mexico.  He can be reached at nieto@mail.sdsu.edu.

Suzanne Valery is the director of institutional grants at Allan Hancock College and a consultant for community colleges in program planning and grant writing.  She brings her knowledge of educational leadership and strategic management to the development of grant-funded initiatives that further institutional goals and provide innovative programs for students.  She has more than fifteen years experience teaching adults in a variety of settings, and currently teaches the course Cultural Democracy online at National University.

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