Community Service Learning

Community Service Learning is a type of WIL that connects classroom instruction with meaningful community service, focused on engaging students directly in practical projects that strengthen their communities. Service learning differs from volunteering because it typically features a minimum hour requirement and a mandatory reflection piece.

Example of a Community Service Learning experience

Justin is a third year biology student. As part of a third year environmental science course, he and two classmates undertook a research project on behalf of their local conservation authority. The students tracked the spread of a fungal disease killing local amphibians, helping the conservation authority develop ways to stop hikers from spreading more of the disease to unaffected areas.

Benefits to Employers

Students provide skills and knowledge base
Additional human resources to increase service and potentially bigger goals/projects
Fosters collaboration between schools and communities

Are you an employer who wants to get started with a community service learning program? Contact us here.

Benefits to Students

Understand how their classroom knowledge can impact the “real” world
Build stronger relationship with community
Gradually develop confidence and increase independence under careful supervision.

Testimonials

Students in Psychology, Child and Youth Study, and Education hosted a homework support program for Syrian refugee children. Student volunteers, with the support of faculty, hosted weekly drop-in sessions for children at nearby Duc D’anville Elementary School, during which they provided help with school work and helped immigrant families make additional connections with the community.

The service-learning support program is a way for Mount Saint Vincent students to gain hands-on experience related to their studies while making a positive impact on the success of participating children...