Learning for the Common Good:  Using Service Learning to Promote Civic Engagement

 Tuesday, April 24, 2012, 1:30-4:00 PM

Center for Teaching & Learning, Koussevitzky Room 210

Workshop Presenters: Barbara Canyes, Executive Director, MACC; Karen Chisholm, MACC AmeriCorps*VISTA Director and Jeremy Poehnert, Member Relations Specialist

This workshop will explore how we can use service learning to promote civic engagement and critical thinking learning outcomes for students. Open to seasoned service learning faculty to faculty who wish to learn about service learning. There will be a special focus on connecting service learning to the community engagement and critical thinking outcomes targeted in BCC’s Core Competencies and the LEAP (Liberal Education and America’s Promise) learning objectives identified by AAC&U (Association of American Colleges and Universities.) Expect to:

• Engage with and learn from colleagues,
• Gain tools and resources to enhance student learning outcomes
• Explore practical course applications

Massachusetts Campus Compact (MACC) is a nonprofit coalition of college and university presidents committed to developing the civic skills of students, building partnerships with the community, and integrating civic engagement with teaching and research. Massachusetts Campus Compact’s work encompasses a broad range of activities designed to increase the effectiveness of those working to make higher education institutions vital agents of civic renewal.

Civic Engagement, according to the AAC&U, is “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. It means promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes.” (Civic Responsibility and Higher Education, edited by Thomas Ehrlich, Oryx Press, 2000, Preface, page vi.)

For further Information: Email mparkman "at" berkshirecc.edu