Community-Based Learning

The Community-Based Learning Program is the integration of community service with academic inquiry and learning. CSA partners with faculty members to create active learning experiences that draw on academic inquiry and concrete relationships with people in need and the agencies that serve them.

Core Concepts of CBL

• Combines volunteering objectives with learning objectives
• Activities change both the recipient and the volunteer
• Structured opportunities for self-reflection and self-discovery
• Acquisition of values, experiential learning, and skills

CBL and Service Learning Resources

CSA has the potential to be a full-service resource for supporting faculty interested in CBL.

• Collaborate with faculty on integrating the components of CBL into curriculum.
• Match service placements that will provide experiences complementary to learning goals.
• Administer all aspects of the relationship between LMU and our community partners.
• Provide guidance to students about service placements and transportation strategies.
• Assess the efficacy of the CBL experience with students, faculty, and community partners.
• Collaborate with the Center for Teaching Excellence in offering CBL discussions.
• Provide a yearly seminar/workshop for faculty interested in CBL.

National CBL and Service Learning Resources

• LEAD California
• Santa Clara University: Ignatian Center for Jesuit Education
• Stanford University: Haas Center for Public Service
• University of California, Los Angeles: Center for Community Learning
• University of San Francisco: Service Learning/Community Engaged Learning

Helpful Information for CBL Class Syllabus Service Agreement

• contact information for the student
• contact information for the community organization
• specific tasks the student is expected to perform
• pre-service requirements (e.g., orientation, training, Live Scan, background check, etc.)
• the total number of hours the student plans to complete at the placement.
• the student and site supervisor both sign the document
• the student submits it to CSA

Supervisor Evaluation

An evaluation of the student's performance by the site supervisor, or a designee.

• the student fills out relevant course information before giving it to the site supervisor
• the site supervisor evaluates the student on 6 criteria, confirms the total number of service hours completed, and suggest ways to make the experience better for the agency in the future
• the site supervisor signs the document and either gives it back to the student to turn in directly to CSA or submit it to CSA personally via email or fax

Student Evaluation

An evaluation of the student's experience at the service site.

• the survey is voluntary and anonymous
• the survey is administered using Qualtrics software

Student Coordinators

• Provide peer support for students enrolled in CBL courses
• Update placement sheets with profiles of community partners
• Conduct CBL orientation in classrooms
• Assist students with placement logistics
• Distribute, collect, and manage service agreements and supervisor evaluations
• Track and report student service hours to faculty