The Center for Service Learning's Purpose
The CSL works with faculty to help them incorporate a service component into their courses, working directly with a nonprofit agency, whereby students work in reciprocity with a nonprofit agency on projects related to their coursework. We accomplish this through one-on-one consultations, workshops, a Faculty Fellows Program, and numerous events and resources. The service learning projects within the courses offer hands-on opportunities for students to experience a culture of learning in a real-world setting to enhance their course learning and increase their marketable skills. During these learning experiences, there is a focus on civic engagement and social responsibility, which ensures reciprocity, as all participants (students, faculty, and community partners) benefit from each other.
We also offer professional development to faculty interested in the integration of service learning experiences through the Faculty Fellows program, along with ongoing instructional and mentoring support for the university community.
Components of a service learning course:
• Service learning projects address community-identified needs and heighten student civic awareness
• The service learning component allows a clear connection of service and academic content for students
• The component involves structured, planned academic analysis and reflection of experiences
• The community partnership and experience are appropriate for course activities and intended outcomes
Research indicates that service learning positively impacts
students, faculty, and community partners, benefiting all participants.
Discover the benefits of Service LearningWhat is service learning?
Service learning integrates community service into academic coursework, whereby students engage in classroom activities and reflection related to the performance of local service projects within the course.
More than a volunteer opportunity, service learning benefits both the student and the community partner through reciprocity of needs, which furthers the students’ educational goals while promoting civic responsibility.
From focused collaboration with classmates and the community partner, to practical, real-world application, along with reflection and assessment, the learning process becomes a much richer and more well-rounded experience.
The Center for Service Learning connects academics and nonprofits for real-life projects that benefit all involved.
CSL collaborates
with over 170 community partners and a core of more than 100 faculty members throughout campus who are committed to service learning.