Service-Learning Mini Grant Program for Faculty

Beginning in Summer 2006, the Office for Civic and Social Engagement is offering faculty mini-grants in the amount of $1000 for faculty interested in up-grading a current course (or designing a new one) to include a service-learning component. Two grants will be available each summer. The specifics of the grant program are listed below. If you have any questions, please contact Carrie Call at ccall@saintmarys.edu or call 284-4573.

I. What are the Goals of the Mini Grant Program?

-- To increase the number of service-learning classes offered at Saint Mary’s College.
-- To educate faculty on the merits and benefits of service-learning.
-- To strengthen Saint Mary’s bonds with the local Michiana Community.

II. How Do You Define Service Learning?
The Corporation for National and Community Service (1994) defines a service-learning program as one that provides educational experiences:

-- Under which students learn and develop through active participation in thoughtfully organized service experiences that meet actual community needs and that are coordinated in collaboration with school and community;
-- That are integrated into students' academic curriculum or provide structured time for students to think, talk, or write about what the student did and saw during the actual service activity;
-- That provide a student with opportunities to use newly-acquired skills and knowledge in real-life situations in their own communities; and
-- That enhance what is taught by extending student learning beyond the classroom and into the community and help to foster the development of a sense of caring for others.

III. What Will I Receive from the OCSE?
Grant recipients will receive funding plus a Service Learning Faculty Pak which includes:

-- A how-to text on incorporating service-learning into your specific discipline.
-- Copies of syllabi from other institutions in which service-learning has been integrated into your discipline.
-- A copy of Where’s the Learning in Service Learning? By J. Eyler and D. Giles which helps to define learning expectations, presents data about learning, and links program characteristics with learning outcomes.
-- Web resources and a bibliography (noting what’s available in the OCSE library as well as Cushwa-Leighton library).
-- Community Contact information.

IV. What Is Expected of Me?
Grant recipients agree to complete the following:

-- Create (by August 15th) a revised syllabus for the course with service-learning components highlighted and explained.
-- Provide service component information including which agency or organization you will be working with and the contact person’s information.
-- A set of evaluations at the end of the course (we will provide the forms) to be completed by you, your community partner, and by two students in the class.

V. What if I Need Help?
The OCSE will provide you with any help or assistance you require including:

-- Making contacts for you with community partners.
-- Providing contact information for other faculty who have used service-learning in your discipline.
-- Talking through course components and brainstorming ideas.
-- Troubleshooting and anything else!

VI. How do I Apply?
To apply, follow this link. Then submit your application no later than April 15, 2006.