Service Learning Program: The classroom without boundaries

By Jackie Glee, Service Learning Coordinator

The Service Learning Program is designed to allow you to apply what is learned in the classroom to the real world, all while developing new skills, improving critical thinking, exploring career possibilities and making a difference in the community.

As part of the program, you are required to complete 15 hours of unpaid service time during the semester and attend a reflection group to share your experiences. Many instructors have incorporated service learning into their teaching by giving extra credit to students who complete the program requirements or as part of a student's grade.

The feedback from students involved in CVC's Service Learning Program has been extremely positive. Specific comments include: "I am addicted to tutoring the children at Pleasant Run," "I changed my major based on volunteering at an agency that was really more of a personal interest for me" and "The chapter we covered in my Criminal Justice class was much clearer and relevant to the real world experience I gained at the agency."

Cedar Valley College has participated in this DCCCD-wide effort since 2003. At that time, there were only 58 applications, 10 instructors and 632 hours of service completed by students. Today, the program has proven to be quite successful. In spring 2007, there were more than 120 applications from CVC students and 29 instructors who participated.

The fall 2007 Service Learning Program Kick-off will be August 27. If you are interested in learning more about how you can become involved, call 972-860-8242, e-mail jackieglee@dcccd.edu or visit eCampus.dcccd.edu.