Civic Engagement

Preparation

Thoughtful preparation is critical to creating an impactful service-learning experience for students. After in-class preparation students should understand what is expected of them and feel confident in their ability to complete the service-learning project.

Student Preparation

Students should be fully prepared for the service-learning experience before starting their project work. Explain the project in detail including how it relates to course study, the expected community impact, and, if relevant, possible future careers. Also include an explanation of the following:

• Set clear expectations, such as:

  • Arrive on time and dress appropriately

  • Ask for help when in doubt

  • Call if you anticipate lateness or absence

  • Respect the privacy of all clients

  • Show respect for the agencies for whom you work

  • Be appropriate in attitude, manners and appearance

  • Be flexible

• Information about and understanding of the population the students will be working with

• Clear project description – make sure students understand the tasks and any deliverables that they are responsible for

• Provide background information about, or have students research, the community organization they will be working with

Adapted from the Faculty Toolkit for Service-Learning in Higher Education, Page 27-28, servicelearning.org --- Learn and Serve America Clearinghouse http://www.servicelearning.org/filemanager/download/HE_toolkit_with_worksheets.pdf

One tool used for in-class service-learning preparation is a PowerPoint presentation created by the TU 2008-2009 AmeriCorps*VISTA. This presentation can be adjusted for particular classes and can be presented by the professor or the AmeriCorps*VISTA Service-Learning Coordinator.

• Service-Learning Preparation PowerPoint

 
Reflection questions prior to beginning the service-learning project

Reflection is a useful tool throughout any service-learning experience. Below are some questions for students to ponder before starting their service-learning project.

• Why do you do service?

• How do you define community?

• Who determines what's best for the community?

• What is the mission of the community organization?

• How will you help achieve this mission?

The role of the syllabus in student preparation

The syllabus is the student’s first interaction with the service-learning project. The project needs to be clearly explained in how it relates to the course work. Include an explanation of the following:

• Why this specific service project is part of the course

• The objective and goals of the project

• Connection between the service experience and course content

• If available, include required dates and directions, if students will need to drive to an off-campus site

• How students will reflect throughout the semester

• How the service-learning project is incorporated in the student's final grade

Sample syllabi can be found at the Campus Compact website.

• Campus Compact Sample Syllabi

Safety and Other Pertinent Information for Students Participating in Off-Campus Service-Learning

Student should never:

•  Report to the service site under the influence of drugs or alcohol

• Give or loan money or other personal belongings to a client

• Make promises or commitments to a client that neither the student nor the organization can keep

• Give a client or organizational representative a ride in a personal vehicle unless the person is authorized for transport. DO NOT transport a child by yourself

• Tolerate verbal exchange of a sexual nature or engage in behavior that might be perceived as sexual with a client or agency representative

• Tolerate verbal exchange or engage in behavior that might be perceived as discriminating against an individual on the basis of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, or ethnicity.

Safety precautions students should take when working in an area they are unfamiliar with:

• Keep your automobile a non-attraction. Do not leave items visible in the car’s interior. Place valuable articles in the trunk prior to arrival.

• If you take the bus, be sure to know the route and the bus fare.

• In case of a breakdown or transportation problem, carry enough money to get home.

• Develop a community safety net of resources in your placement area.

• Get to know your supervisor at the agency. Ask her/him questions about the area and get suggestions on what you should do if you find yourself in trouble.

Safety Info From Faculty Toolkit for Service-Learning in Higher Education, Page 27-28, servicelearning.org --- Learn and Serve America Clearinghouse http://www.servicelearning.org/filemanager/download/HE_toolkit_with_worksheets.pdf

Civic Engagement
Administration Building, Room 236

Phone: 410-704-2806
Fax: 410-704-3441
E-mail: kfaris@towson.edu

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