What is service-learning?

Service-learning is a method of teaching and learning that combines community service with course material. This combination enriches your college experience by connecting the course material to a community context – for example, a classroom assignment may be designed by your professor and a local organization to develop a product that will be utilized by the community at the end of the course. Through service-learning, you'll get to connect to the course material and to the community!

 

 

Why experience service-learning?

While there are numerous reasons to participate in service-learning, here are a few of the things service-learning can do for you:

1. Enrich your academic experience at BCC by connecting classroom theory with real-world application
2. Deepen your understanding of local community issues through first-hand experience
3. Sharpen your professional, "on-the-job" skills
4. Strengthen your connection to a diverse group of people, including professors, community leaders, community members and peers
5. Transform you with the knowledge, experience and network to make a positive impact on the world around you

 

 

Who can get involved?

All BCC students can get involved with service-learning provided that they are enrolled in a course that offers opportunities for service-learning projects! Are the courses you're taking lacking in service-learning opportunities? BCC's Service-Learning Coordinator (efrankli@bcc.edu) will have more information about faculty members who are interested in implementing service-learning in their classrooms. If you are interested in engaging and working more with the community, check out the BCC Bonner AmeriCorps Leader Program.

 

 

Where can I begin?

Start by speaking to your academic advisor about identifying courses and faculty members that offer service-learning. Then register for those courses as outlined in the college's academic calendar.

Already enrolled in classes? Share your enthusiasm with your professors if you would like to see a service-learning component in the courses you're taking. Let them know that BCC's Service-Learning Coordinator would love to hear from them! The best way to reach her is at efrankli@bcc.edu.

 

 

When can I get involved?

Get involved with service-learning projects as soon as you start at BCC! Service-learning courses and projects are offered throughout the Fall and Spring semesters. You can also check out the BCC Bonner AmeriCorps Leader Program at any time.

 

 

How does service-learning work?

Service-learning works similarly to any other course assignment. Your professors will outline the project expectations and grading criteria; they might let you choose your own community-based partners and projects or they may already have a project in mind. In either case, it is important to remember that a service-learning project may be facilitated and graded by your professor, but is also meant to benefit local community members and organizations.