UConn is proud to offer an increasing number of service-learning courses across disciplines and schools. Advisors can play a vital role in raising awareness and increasing student interest in service-learning courses.
We ask your assistance in ensuring students understand:
- When a course may have a service-learning component
- What SL means for the student (service project integrated with coursework)
- How the University Academic Plan and mission support this type of coursework
- The University has received the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Engaged Institutions based on outreach and service-learning initiatives
- How students benefit from these unique experiential learning opportunities
Definition: Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.
Student Benefits
Intellectual
- Basic skills, including expressing ideas, reading, and using technology
- Higher-level thinking skills such as problem solving and critical thinking
- Skills and issues specific to the experience motivation to learn
- Application of knowledge
- Observation, creativity, insight, judgment, and knowledge
- Improved professional skills
Personal
- Leadership development skills
- Empowerment
- Moral development
- Self esteem
- Character development
- Improved social interaction
Social
- Social and civic responsibility and concern for others
- Political efficacy
- Civic participation
- Knowledge and exploration of service-related careers