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Service Learning Project

What is a Service Learning Project?

 

Service Learning Projects are part of the University’s efforts to encourage experiential learning and are required in some academic programs.  Check with your advisor to see if you are required to perform a project.

 

Experiential learning is a process through which students develop knowledge, skills, and values from direct experiences outside a traditional academic setting. Experiential learning encompasses a variety of activities including internships, service learning, undergraduate research, study abroad, and other creative and professional work experiences. Well-planned, supervised and assessed experiential learning programs can stimulate academic inquiry by promoting interdisciplinary learning, civic engagement, career development, cultural awareness, leadership, and other professional and intellectual skills.

 

Learning that is considered "experiential" contain all the following elements:

 

  1. Reflection, critical analysis and synthesis

  2. Opportunities for students to take initiative, make decisions, and be accountable for the results

  3. Opportunities for students to engage intellectually, creatively, emotionally, socially, or physically

  4. A designed learning experience that includes the possibility to learn from natural consequences, mistakes, and successes

 

The intent of the project is to allow students the opportunity to meet one on one in an educational and leadership role with the rural community they are working.  Each AHEC region has unique needs and ongoing community programs and projects students can become involved.  A successful Service Learning Project begins with preplanning and timely coordination with the area AHEC.

Service Learning Process

 

  • Students meet with their academic advisory to develop a concept proposal or idea to share with local AHEC offices.

  • Once approval from the academic advisory has been established and identified, students will contact their local AHEC office to assist with possible project ideas, and community needs for the service learning project.  Together the AHEC can work with the student by suggesting best locations for the projects, or provide information for area contacts.

  • Once a student has developed his or her project he/she will fill out appropriate paper work and submit a copy to their academic advisor as well to the local AHEC.  Information regarding Service Learning projects can be found on all regional AHEC websites or by calling the regional AHEC office.

  • It is important for students to remember this is their project and the AHECs are delighted to help the student achieve the best outcomes, but the student is expected to lead the way.

  • Students will work with the local AHEC office to obtain necessary demographic information and report the outcome of the event.  Many of the AHEC offices are able to receive this feedback online.

 

If you have questions regarding your project, please call your local AHEC office.

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