Academic Service-Learning at UMSL
Welcome to the home of academic service-learning at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Whether you are a faculty member looking to add a service component to a course, a student looking to serve, or a community agency looking for a partnership project, this site can help you accomplish your goals.
Definition: What is Academic Service-Learning?
“Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that intentionally incorporates community service into the curriculum to enhance instruction and reflection, to teach civic responsibility, and to strengthen communities. It's an increasingly effective component of the educational experiences offered to students at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, an increasingly important expression of the institution's commitment to improve our surrounding communities, and a focal point within our Action Plan.”
Thomas F. George, Chancellor
University of Missouri-St. Louis
Differentiation: What makes it different from other forms of service?
- Volunteerism - Service objective with the intent that the activity benefit the community.
- Internships - Learning objective with the intent that the activity benefit the individual.
- Service Learning - Combines service objectives with learning objectives with the intent that the activity benefit and/or support both the recipient and the provider of the service, creating a beautiful mutually beneficial relationship.
Upcoming Events
Academic Service-Learning: Lunch & Learn – February 3, 2009, 12:30 – 1:30 PM – SGA ChamberConsider integrating service-learning into a course as colleagues explain the costs and benefits of revising a course so that students apply what they are learning in a community setting. At the Volunteer Resource Fair (1:30 – 3:00 PM) in the MSC Rotunda meet representatives from local organizations and agencies seeking volunteers and those interested in developing partnerships with UMSL.
Getting Started with Academic Service-Learning: Lunch & Learn – May 1, 2009, 12:30 – 2:00 PM –72 J.C. Penney Conference Center
Interested in developing a service-learning activity or requirement for a fall ’09 or spring ‘10 class? Attend this program for basic information that supports your plan and an introduction to possible community partners who may support your goal. To insure an optimal match with community partners, contact Megan Hill <hillme@umsl.edu> in advance to discuss your ideas.