What is Service-Learning?

Service-learning is a “…form of experiential education in which students engage in activities that address human and community needs together with structured opportunities intentionally designed to promote student learning and development” (Jacoby, 1996).  Service-learning is a teaching strategy used to advance academic learning through civic engagement. The CCE connects communities to WSU faculty and students to work on issues to impact our community while deepening the understanding of course content.

Benefits of Service-Learning

Developing a service-learning course can improve student learning and retention, provide support to community organizations, and provide community-based networking and research opportunities for faculty. 

Faculty

  • Attract highly motivated and engaged students
  • Support students with different learning styles
  • Bring new and experienced perspectives to course discussions
  • Networking opportunities with engaged faculty in other disciplines
  • Support local communities and become more familiar with community assets and needs
  • Encourage active participation by WSU community
  • Explore new channels for research and publication
  • Earn recognition from the CCE for stellar service learning outcomes

Students

  • Increased retention, motivation, and engagement
  • Better grades
  • Explore diverse uses of course content
  • Practical hands on experience
  • Develop critical thinking and problem solving skills
  • Build professional networks for future jobs, internships, and/or references
  • Improve resume and/or curriculum vitae

Community Partners

  • Added human resources help agencies meet their goals and needs
  • Network with the WSU community and other community agencies
  • Students bring creativity and energy to the larger community
  • Educating young adults about community needs encourages future civic participation and helps ensure future support of the organization
  • Increase awareness of important issues
  • Take part in the education of tomorrow's leaders

Resources

The CCE offers support to integrate service-learning and civic engagement components into courses. We work individually with faculty to provide the types and levels of support appropriate for each course.  The Center for Civic Engagement has a library of journals and books available for two-week loans in CUB L48.

Community-Based Research (CBR) Resources