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Explain Service Learning (SL)

How faculty present SL to students is very important. Here are some suggestions.

1. Explain SL

Explain what SL is, the reason you chose SL, and why you think it is important. Make sure you explain what you want the students to get out of it (the learning objectives).

  • Frame SL by using pre-service readings (optional)
  • Describe the specifics of the service/project
  • Describe the benefits students can look forward to, including skills and knowledge they will gain
  • Highlight the positive community impact and the community goal the service will address
  • Remind your students we are working with the community (not for), to achieve mutual benefit.

Describe connections

Describe how the SL relates to course concepts, how you will help students make connections, how you expect them to demonstrate what they have learned from the service (e.g., discussion posts, papers, presentations), and how their learning will be assessed.

Explain the process (tasks)

Explain to students how to engage with the community for this class

  • Mention the importance of follow-through with their community commitments, and how real people will be impacted by their work.
  • Outline students’ tasks and next steps (how to get started, and by when).
  • Anticipate that students may face challenges with community partners. Consider reviewing with them the points on this handout about persistence. 
  • Provide tips for staying safe.
  • Anticipate that some students may not be able to participate for various reasons, so be ready to explain a flexible option or alternative projects.

2. Invite SL Staff to Present

SL staff are happy to help you explain SL to your students and how to get started. Please plan two weeks in advance. Contact KaraBrascia@boisestate.edu to make arrangements.

3. Invite Community Partners

Students respond positively to meeting community partners. Face-to-face contact helps students feel comfortable and excited about their SL experience. Community partners can provide brief agency overviews to your class.   SL staff can help coordinate the visit, provide parking validations, etc.   You can modify this DRAFT Letter to invite CPs to class.