Service-Learning, a new MCC initiative based at Damon City Campus, is developing new community relationships and integrating across the curriculum.
More than 200 students are expected to participate this semester in service projects that are tied to 11 courses in English, Law and Criminal Justice, Physical Studies/Physical Education, sociology and other curricula, according to Service-Learning Coordinator Susan Bender.
With three established service learning projects, a formalized initiative was started last fall and proved quite successful. The Brighton WATCH (We All Together Can Help), for example, garnered much support as students conducted radar speed checks, patrolled on foot and held crime prevention seminars for seniors in a Brighton neighborhood.
Service-Learning allows students to learn and develop through organized community service projects. It is connected to curriculum, emphasizes student enrichment, and fills a community need that is defined by the participating organization. “There are many benefits to the students, college and community,” says Bender. “Among them, service learning teaches values, citizenship and leadership. And it increases the relevancy of education by bringing academic instruction to life.”
If you want to incorporate Service-Learning into your course next semester, call Susan Bender at x1710.
Dianne McConkey
Public Affairs
02/09/2004 |