Service-Learning

What is Service-Learning?

Academic Service-Learning is a method of instruction where students learn and develop through active participation in thoughtfully organized service that:

• Is integrated into and enhances academic and co-curricular learning
• Is conducted in and meets the needs of the community
• Is coordinated with an institution of higher education and community partners
• Helps foster civic responsibility
• Includes structured time for the students to reflect on the service experience.

- Adapted from the Corporation for National and Community Service

Academic Service-Learning courses strive to meet the following three goals:

• Integrate the course or program learning objectives with the service experience
• Develop a life-long commitment to service and civic engagement
• Fulfill an identified need in the community

Academic Service-learning is a credit-bearing, educational experience in which students participate in an organized service activity that meets identified community needs and reflect on the service activity in such a way as to gain further understanding of course content, a broader appreciation of the discipline, and an enhanced sense of self-awareness and commitment to social justice.

How can the Volunteer & Service-Learning Center help you?

• Give ideas and examples of possible service-learning projects
• Provide contacts to community agencies and officials supportive of service-learning
• Assist in developing community partnerships
• Help students identify useful service-learning projects
• Direct you to useful resources to learn more about service-learning
• Guide you in designating your course as a service-learning course