Service Learning Projects
One of the key targets of the SWAT program is the implementation of a student driven, water related Service Learning Project. SAWS H2O University staff believes that through the Service Learning experience, students will gain a much richer understanding and experience true application of the C.O.R.E. values. How?
- Service Learning helps students master the course content by applying it to real life situations.
- Service Learning helps students develop competencies of social and civic responsibility.
- Service Learning provides an opportunity to address ethical and social issues associated with the course matter subject.
The real challenge facing SWAT sponsors is the integration of the academic and service components in ways that tailor the program to meet the specific needs of all participants: instructors, students and community partners. Designing a quality Service-Learning course offering requires planning and forethought to develop a dynamic learning environment that engages students as they take an active role in their own educations.
So, what is a problem-based service learning project and what will the experience produce?
Problem-Based Service-Learning (PBSL) — According to this model, students (or teams of students) relate to the community much as “consultants” working for a “client”. Students work with community members to understand a particular community problem or need. This model presumes that the students will have some knowledge they can draw upon to make recommendations to the community or develop a solution to the problem.
Service Research Projects—This Involves students in research within the community. The results of the research are communicated to an agency or community organization so it can be used to address community needs.
SWAT Participation Requirements include:
- Students will complete a “Problem-Based Service Learning Project” on any water-related topic and present their results at the end-of-year SWAT Conference.
- Students must provide copies of any/all materials (Research Paper, Booklets and/or Power Points) on or before the SWAT Conference to the SAWS H2O University staff.
- Student or group projects are acceptable.
- SWAT sponsor will have access to the SAWS Mini-Grant program for project expenses.
Examples
of past SWAT projects are downloadable
in Microsoft PowerPoint presentation format (PPT).
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