Class-Required Service

While there are many definitions, the American Association of Higher Education states:

Service-learning means a method under which students learn and develop through thoughtfully organized service that: is conducted in and meets the needs of a community and is coordinated with an institutions of higher education, and with the community; helps foster civic responsibility; is integrated into and enhances the academic curriculum of the students enrolled; and includes structured time for students to reflect on the service experience.

AAHE: Series on Service-Learning in the Disciplines (adapted from the National and community Service Trust Acto of 1993)

What is service-learning at Willamette University?

Service-learning is a method of teaching based on the principle that community involvement is an invaluable component to a student's educational experience. The collaboration of those involved in service-learning: faculty member, student and community partner, and the insight shared between the three, creates an effective forum for learning by bringing to life theory explored in the classroom. Not only does this methodology of teaching enhance the overall educational experience of Willamette university students enrolled in service-learning courses, it also makes a positive impact on improving the wellness of our Salem community. A healthy collaboration between community partners, Willamette faculty and you (university student) to tackle specific social issues in Salem through service-learning can be a mutually meaningful and mutually beneficial experience.

The Service-Learning Program at Willamette was initiated in 1993 through the combined effort of faculty members wishing to integrate service into their academic course curriculum, the Coordinator of Community Outreach (now known as Director of Community Service Learning), and Salem Community Partners. A Service-Learning Advisory Committee, established in the fall of year 2000 meets monthly to discuss the role of academic service-learning in Willamette courses, its positive impact on the education of university students and in the community.