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Civic/Community Learning Outcomes (Examples)

Courses that incorporate service-learning include at least one civic or community learning outcomes. These outcomes are intended to help students apply course concepts in real-world contexts, understand community needs, and reflect on their roles as responsible and engaged community members. Instructors are encouraged to adapt these outcomes to fit their academic discipline and course goals.

Knowledge

Students will be able to:

  • Identify key issues affecting individuals and groups in the community.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how course content can be applied to address practical challenges in community contexts.
  • Explain how their academic discipline or profession can contribute to the public good.
  • Understand how civic involvement connects to personal, academic, or professional goals.

Skills

As a result of this SL class, students will be able to:

  • Apply relevant knowledge and disciplinary tools to support or collaborate with a community organization.
  • Communicate effectively with community partners and team members.
  • Participate responsibly and professionally in community-based work.
  • Use observation, inquiry, and evidence to understand and address real-world problems.
  • Contribute to community goals using problem-solving and collaboration strategies.

Abilities to Reflect – Self and Social Awareness

As a result of this SL class, students will be able to:

  • Evaluate how their values, goals, or perspectives were shaped or clarified through community engagement.
  • Consider ethical questions that arose during their service and explain how they addressed them.
  • Identify how the service experience might influence their future decisions as a professional or community member.

Civic Responsibility and Engagement

As a result of this SL class, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an increased awareness of the responsibilities of community involvement.
  • Describe the importance of civic participation in a democratic society.
  • Identify ways to remain involved in public or community efforts beyond the course.
  • Explain how their role in the community can contribute to shared goals and public well-being.

Notes for Instructors

Instructors should:

  • Clarify that service-learning is used to reinforce academic learning and professional development.
  • Ensure that all learning outcomes are tied to course-specific objectives.