Community Engaged Learning
Community Engaged Learning (CEL) combines academic coursework with the application of institutional resources to address challenges facing communities through:
- Engagement that addresses societal needs identified by a community.
- Intentional integration of learning objectives co-created with community partner(s).
- Student preparation and ongoing critical reflection.
- Clearly articulated benefits for students, community, and campus partners.
- Opportunities to critically examine social issues and situate self within a community setting.
Community Engaged Learning is a broader, inclusive term that reflects more ways that people engage with their communities. These strategies range from direct service, to advocacy, to research, to philanthropy, and more.
*Adapted from: Michigan State University – Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Service-Learning Toolkit and Stanford Teaching Commons Community Engaged Learning for Faculty
Academic Service-Learning
Service learning is a form of experiential engaged learning whereby students address meaningful civic needs as defined by the community. Students also formally connect their service activities to student learning outcomes and to broader social issues through reflective methods.
Service-Learning Course Designation
Faculty members interested in obtaining a service-learning course designation are invited to submit a service-learning course application to the Service-Learning Committee.
Following approval by the Service-Learning Committee, Faculty Senate, and Chancellor, courses approved for the “SL” designation will be listed as such in both the university’s undergraduate and graduate catalogs.
Current Service-Learning Committee Chair
Dr. Jill Twark
Application Packet
- Responses can then be copied and pasted into the online form.
- ECU approved definition of service-learning is required in all SL designated course syllabi: Service learning is a form of experiential engaged learning whereby students address meaningful civic needs as defined by the community. Students also formally connect their service activities to student learning outcomes and to broader social issues through reflective methods.
- Sample service-learning syllabi
- Course designation timeline (application deadlines: September 15, October 15, January 15, March 15)
- Department chair signature page.
Ready to submit? Please fill out the application on Qualtrics here.