Service Learning Resources

What is service learning?

Service learning is a publicly engaged pedagogical approach that is credit-bearing and faculty-led. It integrates a structured service activity and critical reflection into a course's curriculum, connecting the experience to a substantive course topic.

Designed to equally benefit the students and communities involved, service activities address identified community needs and deepen students’ understanding of course material, expand appreciation of the field and help foster civic responsibility.

We encourage instructors to use Engage UAlbany to find local service activities. This UAlbany database, created in partnership with the United Way, helps our campus community find ways to give back both virtually and in person.

Instructors may also explore opportunities posted on external databases, such as OmprakeshVolunteerMatch and Points of Light Engage.

 

Social work students hold up posters that say, "Let's make real change," and "Real change starts today," at a gathering outside the New York State Capitol.

 

Can service learning be done virtually?

Yes! Students can support community partners through remote service-learning projects, such as:

Research: Students can perform background research, research organizational best practices, and/or research grant opportunities to support the community partner's development.

Assessment: Students can create research tools for program assessment, or undertake assessment, evaluation or feedback on the phone or online.

Content: Students can record or stream performances and workshops and/or develop print, digital and social media material for the community partner.

Watch a presentation on Utilizing Service-Learning Projects in an Online Class, by Dr. Jonathan H. Westover of Utah Valley University.