SERVICE LEARNING
Learn through Real World Experiences.
Service-learning utilizes service experiences in the community and connects it to learning in the classroom. Local nonprofit organizations, government agencies and schools serve as co-educators and provide real world learning situations for students to address unmet community needs.
Service-learning activities inform, clarify, illustrate and stimulate additional thought about academic topics covered in the classroom, as well as encourage students to develop or strengthen a habit of service, social responsibility and community engagement.
Students in these courses have opportunities to learn, develop and reflect through a minimum required hours completing community projects that tie directly to course instruction.
What do students get from service-learning courses?
· Critical thinking and interpersonal skills.
· Better understanding of course content.
· Academic performance and retention.
· Career development.
· Social awareness and community issues.
How do students find a service-learning course?
Service-Learning courses are offered in all majors and disciplines at Cal State San Bernardino.
Most service-learning courses are designated with a course attribute within Academic Scheduling. When searching for classes in CSUSB's Schedule of Classes, select your course and view course information. There will be a "Course Attribute" section at the end of the course information indicating "Service Learning."
Your Academic Advisor can also assist you in exploring Service-Learning opportunities.
Expectations & Responsibilities in Service-Learning
The students role in service learning is to provide the best possible service so that everyone benefits. Service learning not only benefits the community, but is one of the best things students can do to maximize their academic, personal and professional (career) skills.
Be prepared at site location:
- Make sure you have accurate directions to the site.
- Arrive prepared and on-time.
- Spend the time necessary to understand the course goals, objectives, and requirements.
It is a good idea to read up on the organization where you will do your service-learning hours prior to your first day of service. Our partners are very appreciative when students are prepared by understanding a little about the organization and the community it serves. Typically, the agency website can be a great source for learning more about the place and the people who you will be serving.
1. Behave professionally while carrying out assigned tasks, including observance of their established dress code.
2. Complete a service-learning agreement that indicates goals and schedule of hours, with reasonable assurance that this agreement will be honored.
3. Fulfill all hours and complete projects.
4. Provide a minimum 24 hour advance notice of absence to your service site supervisor.
5. Respect the policies and expectations of the site, especially in regards to confidentiality and participation in required training sessions.
6. Serve in a manner which preserves the reputation and integrity of Cal State San Bernardino and service site.
Here are some additional guidelines to assist you in your service learning course:
Do and Dont's of Service Learning