Service Learning

What is service learning?

Service learning is a publicly engaged pedagogical approach that is credit-bearing and faculty-led. It integrated 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 student 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.

Faculty can use the resources below to start integrating service learning into their coursework.

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; research ways for volunteers to provide indirect support during the pandemic; and/or research grant opportunities to support the community partner's development.

Assessment: Students can create research tools for program assessment; undertake assessment, evaluation or feedback on the phone or online; and/or reflect on how public health and this global health crisis intersects with the community partner's work.

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