Community-based and Service-learning "give students direct experience with issues they are studying in the curriculum and with ongoing efforts to analyze and solve problems in the community. A key element in these programs is the opportunity students have to both apply what they are learning in real-world settings and reflect in a classroom setting on their service experiences." - American Association of Colleges & Universities, High Impact Practices
Service-Learning: "A teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities." - Maricopa Community Colleges
Community-Based Learning in a Class
Integration of service-learning into existing courses allows students to participate in community service as part of the curriculum. This option is an opportunity for students to engage in learning by applying information and skills taught in their course curriculum.
Students are able to choose from approved service sites in order to select a location that is right for both their needs and the requirements of the instructor. In our Service-Learning Orientations, we explain how to browse the service sites on our database to find contact information and requirements.
Through Service-Learning you can:
- Develop critical thinking and problem solving skills
- Clarify personal values and dedication to your degree program
- Explore career options
- Develop socially and personally
- Create connections to community and civic partners
Earn college credit for coursework that includes a service component!
To get started, explore our approved community partners and complete the required forms.
Key Terms
Maricopa Community Colleges strives to prepare students through engaged learning to become forces of positive world change. MCCCD Service-Learning and Civic Engagement programming advances and supports student learning, citizenship, leadership, and personal and academic growth.
Service-Learning: A teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.
Co-Curricular Service: Opportunities for student clubs and organizations to participate in meaningful service based on that group’s mission and skills. Activities should address community needs and include reflection.
Civic Engagement: Working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference; promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes.
Volunteerism: Participation in activities designed to improve the quality of life for others.