In many classes, you might study societal problems, how to conceptualize them, and how to think about big picture solutions. But what do these issues look like on the ground? How do they impact actual people living in not-so-different circumstances to your own? What does it look like to responsibly and respectfully work with community members to solve problems?
Community engaged learning courses give you the opportunity to apply your learning in your community to make a real difference in peoples' lives. Along the way, you might discover a new career or a passion project for volunteering in your spare time. Employers may also be interested in community service listed on your résumé.
In these courses, you will:
Address a community-identified need through an equal partnership with a local community organization
Critically examine and reflect on civic and social issues as well as on your service to the community
Be guided by a professor to learn how to engage responsibly and actively listen to community concerns
In community engaged learning, credit is given for the learning, just as in every other class. The engagement is built into the course curriculum just like attendance, assignments, or exams.
Like any other class, expectations should be laid out at the beginning of the semester. Some community engaged learning courses may require a commitment of a couple of extra hours a week spent providing service at a community agency or working on a project. Sometimes, students may be required to walk, bike, take public transportation, or drive to an off-campus location. Students can use the Bloomington Transit system for free with their student ID.
Students can visit the Student Involvement & Leadership Center website for a comprehensive listing of student organizations, including those with a civic engagement focus, and resources for engagement. IU Corps can be a starting point for students who want to learn about service and volunteer options. Visit the City of Bloomington Volunteer Network for a comprehensive listing of agencies and volunteer opportunities in Monroe County.
IU Bloomington community engaged learning courses
Speak to your department chair for more information about service learning opportunities in your major or minor.
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