The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) promotes research on the civic and political engagements of Americans between the ages of 15 and 25. The following topics are covered in this issue of "Around the CIRCLE": (1) Common Social Studies Teaching Practices and their Civic Outcomes; (2) CIRCLE Jointly Hosts…

Considers the characteristics and benefits of learning communities/clusters/coordinated-studies programs, contrasting the unique features of the programs at LaGuardia Community College, Seattle Central Community College, and Daytona Beach Community College. Learning community characteristics involve 25 to 100 students working with three or four…

In order to realize the goal of full opportunity that open admissions implies and to meet the needs of new types of students, we must restructure our educational institutions to meet the needs of individuals. Factors underlying the need to restructure are: (1) analysis of results of credit by examination shows that no particular method of college…

An overview of the evolution of the innovative University of California, Santa Cruz, looks at its origins, campus organization, curriculum and instructional philosophy, campus design, leadership and faculty, student population, campus life, and curriculum design. Strategies for and obstacles to effective change are highlighted. (MSE)