The Service-Learning Program at El Paso Community College encourages civic responsibility among students through community service. We provide resources and support for students and faculty who are currently using or would like to integrate service learning into their course. We support community agencies that are interested in partnering with El Paso Community College.
The program provides academic credit for service work in the community. Students contact their instructor and ask to participate in the Service-Learning Program. All first-time students participating in the Service Learning Program must attend an orientation session, which will be given at all campuses in the first and second weeks of classes. Returning students may begin service right away. The students and faculty members agree on 10-20 hours of service in a specific community service agency that students will perform in exchange for academic credit. Different requirements of hours apply depending on whether a student is doing a five-, eight- or fifteen-week course. If the student completes the designated assignment, she/he will receive credit through the course and receive recognition from El Paso Community College.
Through Service-Learning students can apply newly acquired academic skills and knowledge to address real-life needs in their own communities and reflect on the meaning of this service. Students will receive a certificate for their participation. If students complete more than 60 hours of service in one academic year students will receive a medallion celebrating their service to the community.
Community Resources
How Do Community Agencies Help Student Learning?
We have developed a list of agencies which provide students the opportunity for service learning. It is important for the agency as well as students and faculty to keep in mind the learning objectives, schedule, and interests. Once students find a service site that peaks their interest, they contact the agency directly to arrange for the service-learning experience. It is important for community agencies to have in mind ideas, projects, and initiatives that our students may take on. The purpose of our Service Learning Program is to serve as the bridge between the community and students; giving students the opportunity to become socially responsible and engaged in their community.
How Can My Organization Get Involved?
We encourage community agencies to contact the Service Learning office as they decide to become a partner to a service-learning course at EPCC. Our office looks forward to fostering relationships with community agencies and EPCC faculty to enhance the educational experience of the students.
Please fill out the community partner form (found in our documents below) and email us to include your agency on our agency list.
Student Resources
Allow yourself to learn and have fun as you serve in our community. Service learning gives students a sense of control over their learning, a better sense of social responsibility, and an opportunity to experience working outside the classroom setting.
Benefits of Service Learning
- Enriches your learning
- Increases your awareness of current societal issues
- Enhances critical and creative thinking skills
- Improves your interpersonal skills
- Develops civic responsibility through active community involvement
- Looks great on your resume
Need more reasons to join our program? Ask your instructor if you can do Service Learning and gain extra credit in your course.
For information on the organizations in our network, please check the agency list (found in our documents below).
Contact the Service Learning Program for more information or join us for an orientation session!
Faculty Resources
Teaching is an ongoing personal enrichment experience filled with the challenge to integrate new teaching methodologies that may be more inclusive than the ever faithful lecture, “I teach; you learn; I question; you answer."
Today’s students are challenging that type of traditional teaching methodology; they want a more active part in learning. Service learning is an ideal teaching strategy that incorporates a diverse approach to teaching and learning. Service learning allows the integration of academic instruction with community service.
Principles of Good Practice in Community Service Learning
- Academic credit is for learning, not for service
- Do not compromise academic rigor
- Set Learning goals for students
- Establish criteria for the selection of community service placements
- Reflection is an important tool for evaluating outcomes of service.
Documents
