SPIA 1024: Community Service Learning

SPIA 1024 is designed as an introduction to community engagement for students beginning in the proposed Community Systems & Engagement Pathways Minor.

With an emphasis on the development of students' civic agency, the class explores critical perspectives on community, ethical community engagement, service and volunteerism, servant leadership, and social change.

Students consider the socio-political dynamics inherent in community development and problem solving by engaging in significant community engagement and service-learning experiences, guided reflection, and creation of a personal community engagement action plan. 

3 Things You Should Know About SPIA 1024:

1. If you are interested in volunteering, community service, and social change you will find the topics and discussions interesting and engaging.
2. The course meets one time per week for 2 hours and 50 minutes in order to get off-campus for time spent in the community!
3. In-person service learning will hopefully resume in Fall 2021.

Key Learning Experience
Service Learning! You will have an opportunity to apply what you are learning in the classroom to a project in partnership with a community organization. All materials and transportation are provided and there are no additional costs associated with the course (no textbooks to purchase either).

What is the most enjoyable part of the course? What can students learn from this part of the course?
You will enjoy critically thinking about volunteerism and how your actions impact your communities and the issues you are passionate about.

Other Things to Know About SPIA 1024?
All years, all majors welcome! No textbooks to purchase, all materials and transportation to community partner sites provided.

This course meets CLE Area 2 the following Pathways requirements: 

• Reasoning in the Social Sciences
• Ethical Reasoning
• Intercultural and Global Awareness

Student quotes:

“I really liked Catherine’s engagement with the students and putting herself onto the student’s level.”

“She allowed us to work/discuss topics in breakout rooms even though she wouldn’t be in them. She gave A LOT of feedback, and I found that very helpful.”

“She always kept class engaging and fun which is great for a two and half hour class. She also did a good job teaching the course material. I have a better understanding of the world of community service.”

Contact: Catherine Cotrupi