Information for Advisors
The University of Connecticut is proud to offer an increasing number of service learning courses across disciplines and schools. Advisors can play a vital role in raising awareness and increasing student interest in service learning courses.
We ask your assistance in ensuring students understand:
1. When a course may have a service learning component
2. What SL means for the student (service project integrated with coursework)
3. How the University Academic Plan and mission support this type of coursework
4. The University has received the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Engaged Institutions based on outreach and service learning initiatives
5. How students benefit from these unique experiential learning opportunities
Definition: Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.
Student Benefits
Intellectual
• Basic skills, including expressing ideas, reading, and using technology
• Higher-level thinking skills such as problem solving and critical thinking
• Skills and issues specific to the experience motivation to learn
• Application of knowledge
• Observation, creativity, insight, judgment, and knowledge
• Improved professional skills
Personal
• Leadership development skills
• Empowerment
• Moral development
• Self esteem
• Character development
• Improved social interaction
Social
• Social and civic responsibility and concern for others
• Political efficacy
• Civic participation
• Knowledge and exploration of service-related careers
