In Service-Learning in Higher Education: Concepts and Practices, a key book in the field, Barbara Jacoby defines service-learning as “a form of experiential education in which students engage in activities that address human and community needs together with structured opportunities intentionally designed to promote student learning and development” (p. 5). The author emphasizes that reflection and reciprocity are key concepts that set service-learning apart from other forms of experiential education such as internships, field experiences, community service, and volunteerism.
Given Indiana University Northwest’s commitment to diversity, lifelong learning, and the communities it serves, it is crucial that students have opportunities to develop an awareness and recognize the importance of these areas. Service-learning is one vehicle through which those opportunities can be made available to students.
Because service-learning is a pedagogical strategy, service-learning at Indiana University Northwest, is housed within the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL). CETL staff are available to help faculty identify service-learning opportunities and integrate service-learning into their teaching. CETL also offers workshops and other events related to service-learning.
Faculty members who are interested in including a service-learning component in their course should contact the Service-Learning staff listed below.
