Simmons Community Engagement
Service-Learning Course Submission
The service-learning course designation will help students identify courses that combine community
engagement with academic instruction. At its best, service-learning is a high-impact pedagogy which can
enhance student learning while providing tangible benefits to communities. For service-learning to be
effective in this manner and in line with our values as an institution, we emphasize the following practices;
course integration with quality reflection opportunities, a critical approach rooted in equity and inclusion, and
mutually beneficial partnerships with community.
Service-Learning courses should:
• Include community-based learning that is relevant to course content;
• Include structured reflection that enhances students’ understanding of connections between course
content and service;
• Take into account issues of equity and inclusion in their design
• Reflect the needs of the community and include projects created in collaboration with community
partners;
• Include evaluation by students and partners of the service project, course content, student learning
and community impact. (SCE can provide you with these)
Why designate Service-Learning courses?
• Identify courses that meet service-learning criteria in the schedule of the classes:
• Enable students with an interest in community-based learning to identify courses that offer them this
opportunity;
• Bring greater visibility to the practice of service-learning at Simmons and allow SCE to better track and
document the benefits of this pedagogy to students, the community, and the faculty;
• Be eligible to apply for Faculty Service-Learning Funds distributed by SCE
• Allow SCE to better support, provide training, and share opportunities with faculty and community
partners;
Procedures for designation
1. Faculty complete and submit a brief form by February 19
th
for Fall courses and September 18
th
for
Spring courses. Please note: If you are looking to solidify new partnerships for service-learning courses,
please contact Simmons Community Engagement at least 3 months before the start of the semester.
2. If the course does not meet the criteria for Service Learning designation, the faculty member will be
notified and will receive feedback and suggestions from the Assistant Director for Service-Learning. As
appropriate, Simmons Community Engagement will work with faculty to review course elements to
meet criteria.
Revised form approved by Service-Learning Advisory board January 2020