The Service Learning Associates program is designed to get students and faculty into working relationships to effectively support and utilize community-based partnerships in learning. The program provides opportunities for students to play a leadership role in service learning classes. DU students who have completed at least one previous service-learning course (or are very knowledgeable in topics related to service learning) are eligible to apply.

SLAs assist instructors in the planning, implementation and assessment of service learning courses. Ongoing training on service learning and related topics is provided. Trainings will engage students around how to design a service learning course, develop community partnerships, work in communities, consider cultural diversity in meaningful ways in the classroom and community, examine privilege, develop evaluation and assessment techniques, and lead critical reflection sessions. Duties of Service Learning Associates will include:

• Providing support to faculty members teaching service-learning courses. While the needs of each instructor and class are unique (the student will work with the instructor to create a plan for how the SLA will engage with students and faculty in a service-learning course), some activities that an SLA might do include:

  • Developing partnerships with a community organization;
  • Planning and implementing service learning activities off-campus;
  • Facilitating reflection;
  • Developing reflection tools for students;
  • Conducting assessment and evaluation with community partners and students;
  • Research social justice issues;
  • Working with the faculty member to assess student learning throughout the course; and/or
  • Problem-solving with students, community partners and faculty mentor.
• Creating working, productive community relationships between faculty and student participants
• Deepening and strengthening service learning courses on campus

Students receive training through CCESL over the course of the year to support their work with faculty.

SLAs should plan to attend the following:

1. Service Learning Associates Orientation – Thursday, September 6th, 6-8pm
2. Community Organizing Training, Friday, October 5th

Student applications for 2012-2013 are now being accepted. See detailed information below.

Service Learning Associate Job Description

Service Learning Associate Application

Faculty participating in (as well as those who have completed) the Service Learning Scholars Program are eligible for the Service Learning Associate (SLA) Program. Students who have previously taken service learning classes receive training to become SLAs. SLAs then work with faculty to support the implementation of the service learning components of classes.

For more information, please contact cara.dienno@du.edu or at 303-871-2158.