Service-Learning

Service-Learning is a teaching methodology that combines service and specific classroom learning objectives. There are over fifty service-learning courses offered at the UW-Madison that integrate a service component into the class that is related to the learning objectives. Through service-learning, you will have the opportunity to work with a variety of different people and/or social issues. In order to reflect on what you have learned from your experience, your professor may require that you keep a journal, create a presentation for your classmates, etc. You will not only learn a lot about "real world" issues, but you are guaranteed to learn a great deal about yourself in the process!

Finding a Service-Learning Course

Service-learning courses are available each semester and can be found by looking in the timetable. If a course has a service-learning component it will be listed in the footnotes section. View former and current lists of service-learning course offerings by downloading one of the following xml (MS Excel Spreadsheet) files:

Benefits of Service-Learning

Links course work to real life experience and employment.
Allows you to make a difference in the community.
Enhances your critical thinking skills.
Improves interpersonal and human relations skills.
Provides you with an opportunity for career exploration and potential job contacts.
Provides you with a greater understanding of social issues.
Documents work experience and skill development.

Frequently Asked Questions about Service-Learning

How many hours of service-learning work will students complete during the semester? How much time outside of class is required?

The number of service-learning hours that each student completes during the semester is up to the individual faculty member, but the average is around 20 hours. Some faculty members have students perform less, while others have students do more per semester depening on the course. Outside-of-class time is generally required with service-learning, but the number of hours depends on the faculty member teaching the course.

Who decides what agency I will be working with?

Some professors allow the students to choose the agency with which they will work; other professors assign students an agency. In some classes, the entire class works with the same agency; in other classes, students work in groups and each group goes to a different agency. Again, it is up to the individual professor and class.

What if a problem arises during the semester at the agency?

Each professor should devise a plan for dealing with any problems during your service-learning experience. We recommend that you discuss any problems with your site supervisor. Immediately following discussion with your site supervisor, contact your professor and let him/her know that you talked with your site supervisor. Be sure to document any problems you have. Above all, keep your professor informed as to what is happening at your site. Many issues that first look like problems turn out to be learning opportunities.

Will transportation to the service sites be provided?

In most cases, it is up to students to find transportation to and from a service site. Using the bus and carpooling are always encouraged. Certain sites may be eligible as part of our free Volunteer Transportation Program.