Learning Service in Action is an experiential learning elective for students who want to align their passion for service with personal academic interests. Students will explore their vision for social change and develop leadership skills that enhance their positive impact in the community. Forming collaborative partnerships with professionals in the field, students will analyze different models of engaging in humanitarian work and learn how development leaders empower local communities. Relevant issues include defining poverty and inequality, evaluating assets and needs, choosing practical solutions, achieving measurable results, creating accountability, conducting effective advocacy, and empowering beneficiaries.
Students will:
- Gain historical and cultural understanding about a region in Asia.
- Gain an emotionally-engaged understanding of the region through authentic relationships with the local community.
- Explore the complex web of political, social, psychological, religious, and interpersonal dynamics that influence development.
- Reflect upon how to be a socially conscious global citizen.
- Partner with development professionals to engage with a local community.
- Develop personal purpose and self-efficacy to make a difference in the world, culminating in a personal compassion project.
Students will be expected to complete all assigned readings, contribute to class discussions, perform on quizzes and tests, and complete a personal narrative reflection. A final presentation detailing students’ on-site work is a major course assessment.