First-Year Writing Seminar (105-8-1)
Topic
Why is Service-Learning Important?
Instructors
Julia Oliver Rajan
Meeting Info
Kresge Centennial Hall 2-430: Mon, Wed, Fri 2:00PM - 2:50PM
Overview of class
Why is Service-Learning Important?
In today's evolving job market, employers seek more than just engaging in classroom discussions and academic experiences; they want their workforce to make a tangible difference. Surveys from the Corporation for National and Community Service reveal that volunteering is associated with a 30% higher likelihood of employment. Companies are 80% more likely to choose candidates with volunteering experience. However, college students are less likely to volunteer compared to their parents and high school students. This seminar will explore the numerous benefits of volunteering within our local community. Through community service, students will gain real-world experience and develop valuable skills while making a positive impact on others' lives. Working with nonprofit organizations provides first-year students an excellent opportunity to explore career paths and enhance their time-management skills. Additionally, college students who volunteer in their local communities often feel happier and experience a greater sense of belonging. Students are required to complete an 8-hour community volunteering project.
Learning Objectives
• Apply service-learning instruction to address real-life problems.
• Articulate and demonstrate teamwork and leadership skills.
• Discuss community work experiences through written essays and digital media.
• Integrate classroom learning and course content with civic engagement.
• Identify, assess, and become aware of the issues, needs, and social policies of various communities in Evanston, Chicago, and surrounding areas
Evaluation Method
Class participation is 10%.
Community participation is 20%
Reflective essays are 20%
Recorded journal reflections are 20%.
Homework on Canvas is 20%.
Final project is 10%
Class Materials (Required)
Learning Through Serving: As Student Guidebook for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Across Academic Disciplines and Cultural Communities ISBN: 9781579229900
Author: Cress, Collier, Reitenauer and Associates
Publisher: Stylus Publishing, LLC ©2013
Class Attributes
WCAS Writing Seminar
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Weinberg First Year Seminars are only available to first-year students.