Re: intra-campus service-learning

I have a bias toward external opportunities, but internal ones are entirely valid.  We have done activities similar to those described by others.  We are about to launch a (probably multi-year) project to develop an exercise/nature trail circling the campus, since we are in a newly developed area with lots of green space.  Opportunities about for learning in biology, geology, engineering, landscape architecture, kinesiology, etc.; we are explicitly looking at how it will serve the surrounding community as well as the college.  Biology classes have also done testing of the campus water system and negotiated improvements with the administration.  Internal campaigns on social issues have raised awareness and given students a chance to understand how change happens.

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Carl H. Rush, MRP

Coordinator, Community Health Program

Northwest Vista College

(210) 348-2079

(210) 348-2131 fax

http://www.accd.edu/nvc/areas/health/

 

-----Original Message-----
From: service-learning-owner@csf.colorado.edu [mailto:service-learning-owner@csf.colorado.edu]On Behalf Of Lori Walters-Kramer
Sent: Thursday, March 06, 2003 9:59 AM
To: service-learning@csf.colorado.edu
Subject: Re: intra-campus service-learning?

 

Have practitioners and experts on service-learning discussed something that I refer to as 'intra-campus service-learning'?  Examples - 1) students in a research methods class collect data to determine how students and faculty perceive the campus Learning Center, this information will be used to help the Learning Center understand the obstacles it faces in its efforts to get students to utilize the Center and improve their academic performance; 2) students in a small group communication class work in groups to develop surveys and collect data from students, faculty, community members to determine how the campus TV station is perceived/utilized by various stakeholders.  The undergirding assumption is that campus TV stations, when broadcast to a large area outside of the campus boundaries, is a potentially valuable resource for campus AND community members.  These are two examples of what I'm referring to as intra-campus service-learning. Does service-learning always have to occur outside of the academic institution?  I'm looking forward to your responses.

 

Regards-

Lori Walters-Kramer