Getting Started

The Office of Service-Learning and Volunteer Programs has a plethora of resources for faculty to utilize, including a resource library, located in our office. Some of these resources include recent publications about service-learning in a variety of disciplines, information about the benefits of service-learning , timesheets for students to track their hours , risk management information , and sample syllabi.

There are several areas to consider when starting a service-learning course. The following are steps that will help faculty (re)design and prepare a service-learning course.

  1. Identify your goals and objectives. Write or rewrite student learning outcomes.
  2. Determine the type of service project that will complement your learning goals and objectives.
  3. Select a community partner.
  4. Involve the community partner in the planning stages.
  5. (Re)design and share your syllabus with the community partner.
  6. Introduce students to the concept of service-learning and the community work they will be doing.
  7. Explain how the community work will allow them to gain a deeper understanding of the core concepts taught in the course.
  8. Provide opportunities to reflect on the service experience throughout the semester.
  9. Assess the overall service-learning experience.

If you are faculty or a Chair interested in incorporating service-learning into your course or academic program, please contact Dr. Linda Stevenson, Service-Learning Faculty Associate.

 

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