Frequently Asked Questions
What is service learning?
The Office of Service Learning and Civic Engagement (OSL-CE) has adapted the definition
of service learning as defined by the National Commission of Service Learning. Service
learning is a teaching and learning approach that integrates community service with
academic study to enrich learning , teach civic responsibility and strengthen communities,
while engaging students in reflection upon what was learned, what was experienced
and how the community benefited.
How is service learning different from say, volunteerism?
There are many types of community involvement. However, it is important to note some
distinctions between service learning and other forms of community participation.
The following has been adapted from Andrew Furco's "Service Learning a Balanced Approach to Experiential Education".
- Volunteerism: the primary emphasis is on the service being provided and the primary intended beneficiary is the service recipient.
- Community service: the primary focus in on the service being provided as well as the benefits the service activities have on the recipients (e.g., one day beach clean up
- Internships: engages students in service activities primarily for the purpose of providing students with hands-on experiences that enhance their learning or understanding of issues relevant to a particular area of study.
- Fieldwork: provides students with co-curricular service opportunities that are related
but not fully integrated, with their formal academic studies.
What kinds of service learning courses are offered?
Our program is growing with new courses being added every semester. Approximately
10 service learning courses will be offered in AY 2005-2006. Click here to read recent examples of service learning courses and projects.
When can I expect students to start?
If you refer to the CSUCI Academic Calendar you will see when semesters begin and end. When students start will depend upon the
service learning project , the amount of hours required by the course and what is
decided upon by the faculty member and the community partner. Generally, an organization
will begin to receive students within the first three - four weeks of the semester.
Will students stay beyond one semester?
Many service learning projects may last only one semester. However, that same course
may be offered the next semester with the possibility of a new group of service learners
working at your placement site.
How many students will work with us for the semester?
When you complete the information in our community partner database it is very important
that you list the number of students you can support each semester. Many of our community
partners have over 20 students per semester, while others have just one or two. You
should not take more students that you feel comfortable supervising and providing
quality experiences and opportunities for.
What if students don't show up, stop coming. or don't complete their hours?
In the event that students say they are going to show up and don't, or if they stop
coming all together after coming a few times, the first thing to do is contact the
student directly and ask what happened. In most cases the situation can be resolved
at this step. If you are unsuccessful at reaching them or they do not return your
calls, please contact the faculty member or the OSL-CE. We are here to help you work
most effectively and successfully with student.
What if my organizations can not facilitate on-site reflection?
Being able to facilitate on-site reflection is certainly not part of the criteria
for being a community partner and should be done only if you feel comfortable with
this process. Reflection does not have to be a formal process. Students are reflecting
on their experiences in class through discussion, writing, reading assignments, and
research. However, as co-educators you and your staff have something unique to add
to a students coursework. You are the experts on your organization, and as such offer
a "real-world" perspective. Think broadly and creatively in terms of what reflection
is and how you can a achieve that with your students. It could be as easy as walking
down the hall with a student asking them what they achieved today. It is possible
for you to even discuss with the faculty member ways you can compliment what is happening
in class. For many ideas on reflection please click here.
Who are the students participating in service learning?
The OSL-CE works with a variety of faculty and departments around the University.
Therefore, the students coming to your organization will have a variety of majors
and areas of study. Should there be particular student requirements your organization
is looking for (i.e., areas of study, language etc.) be sure to note these in our
community partner database.
What happens at the end of the semester?
Community partners will be asked to complete an online evaluation. Information from
this survey will be used for program planning and quality improvement.
What if I don't need service learners, but I do not need volunteers?
Career Development Services, on campus, provides a list of volunteer and community
service opportunities for our students. Click on the following link to see their webpage:
http://www.csuci.edu/careerdevelopment/careerdevelop.htm