POLICIES
Service-Learning Policy on Service Hours
The baseline hour requirement for S-L is 20 hours or more. This can include participation in your community partner's orientation, one talk story session, and one midterm reflection session.
1. “Matrix match”
If a “matrix match” is possible (i.e. at least one instructor does not specify particular pathways or service sites), then a student MAY complete service learning at one site, and have it apply to two classes.
2. No “matrix match”
If both classes require specific locations, then the student must choose. He/she can only take the service-learning option in ONE class. For example, if a language class requires tutoring at a school, and a science class requires involvement in at an environmental site, the student cannot do both service projects in one semester.
3. Other faculty policies
Faculty new to service-learning will be asked to attend an orientation session, and to make the following agreements:
- A maximum hour cap has been established: Students should not be required to complete more than 45 hours of service in one semester. This includes service in ALL classes.
- Students should not complete service projects at more than one location in one semester.
- S-L in multiple classes (aka “double dipping”) is allowed.
1. “Matrix match”
If a “matrix match” is possible (i.e. at least one instructor does not specify particular pathways or service sites), then a student MAY complete service learning at one site, and have it apply to two classes.
- If both of the classes is 100 or below, then no additional hours of service are required.
- If one of the classes is 200 or above, then 10 additional hours may be required.
2. No “matrix match”
If both classes require specific locations, then the student must choose. He/she can only take the service-learning option in ONE class. For example, if a language class requires tutoring at a school, and a science class requires involvement in at an environmental site, the student cannot do both service projects in one semester.
- Service-learning should normally be done only at one site even for two classes.
- This means that, while it is OK to “require” service-learning, an alternative must be provided.
3. Other faculty policies
Faculty new to service-learning will be asked to attend an orientation session, and to make the following agreements:
- S-L is described in the syllabus
- Not more than 20 hours is required -- without an approved rationale
- The S-L reflection paper, or an adapted equivalent, must be required in the course
- A non-service option must be provided to the student upon request.