Below is suggested syllabus language for classes in which SL is an option. Adapt it to fit your course.
Concise explanation:
“This class offers students the opportunity to earn a Service-Learning transcript distinction for completing a project with a nonprofit or public organization that addresses a community-identified need (e.g., food security, affordable housing, human rights, youth asset building, intercultural connections, climate change). This free distinction highlights your commitment to community service. To receive the distinction, students complete their project, and the instructor submits their names to the Registrar for official recognition on their transcript.”
Longer explanation with SL definition:
“This class offers a service-learning option. Service-learning (SL) is an educational opportunity that gives students hands-on experience applying what they learn in the classroom to a community-identified need, while gaining valuable workplace skills, expanding their perspectives, and developing an understanding of their role within their community.”
“Students who complete a project that meets SL criteria* can gain a Service-Learning transcript distinction for this course. This distinction is free, and it highlights your commitment to serving the community. To participate, students should consult with the instructor about an appropriate project. Service-Learning projects should meet the same learning outcomes as non-SL projects. At the end of the semester, the instructor sends to the SL Director the names and ID numbers of students who completed the Service-Learning option.”
*Students can gain service-learning (SL) distinction if:
- The SL experience addresses a community-identified need (such as food security, affordable housing, human rights, youth asset building, intercultural connections, climate change, etc.) and promotes well-being and/or sustainability. The SL project makes a clear positive community impact, often by increasing community capacity, reducing barriers, or building community.
- The community is involved in designing the project, ensuring that it is meaningful and addresses its specific needs. This involvement can come from two main sources: organizations like non-profits or public agencies working for the common good, or individuals/collectives/grassroots experts with deep knowledge and experience of the community’s issues.
- The SL experience supports students in achieving specific learning outcomes, including academic learning and civic/community learning. The student demonstrates their learning through a project or reflection.
- The student’s investment in this project is 10+ hours.