Overview
Community engaged learning utilizes critical service-learning, which differs from traditional service-learning or volunteering. Critical service-learning (CSL) is a teaching method that combines community service with classroom learning, reflection, and action to address social justice issues. Community partners are co-teachers with course instructors. Students will work with your organization for a semester (usually 20 hours per semester) applying the content they learn in the classroom. The student learns from you the community partner (making the information learned in class tangible) then brings that knowledge back to the classroom. Students engage in critical reflection throughout the semester, connecting what they are learning in the classroom and in the community.
CSL practices include:
- Integrating social justice concepts into the classroom
- Redistributing power among students, professors, and community partners
- Developing authentic relationships with community partners
- Incorporating critical pedagogy, action, and reflection
Apply
If you are interested in becoming a service-learning partner, the first step is to complete an intake form through our local networking group, PICCE (Partners in Campus and Community Engagement), by following the link below. Once you submit this form, you will be contacted about partnering. Please contact Sarah Marr at marrs2@gonzaga.edu or Robin Lewis at petersenlewis@gonzaga.edu for more information.