Developing a Syllabus

Syllabus development is one of the most critical and difficult aspects of successfully implementing an academic service-learning course. Below is a suggested list of questions that should be considered when developing a service-learning syllabus.

Below is a suggested list of questions that should be considered when developing an academic service-learning syllabus:

• Have I sufficiently clarified mutual objectives with community partners?
• Have I connected service components with the course objectives?
• Clearly stated expectations for students
• How should I encourage students to respectfully engage with community partners, appreciating the learning opportunity that exists in the relationship?
• How can I incorporate writing into students’ grades to ensure adequate time commitment?

Exemplary academic service-learning syllabi should:

• Are expectations for students clearly stated?

• Include service as an expressed goal

• Clearly define how the service experience will be measured and what will be measured

• Describe the nature of the service placement and/or project

• Specify how students will be expected to demonstrate what they have learned in the placement/project (journal, papers, and presentations).

• Present course assignments that link the service placement and the course content

• Include a description of the reflective process

Here is a list of other resources that can assist you in constructing a strong service-learning syllabus

• “Constructing a Service-Learning Syllabus”

• Campus Compact (Service-learning syllabi arranged by discipline)

• The National Service Learning Clearinghouse (A compilation of best practices, syllabi, and curricula)

• Community-Campus Partnerships for Health (CCPH maintains a growing collection of service-learning syllabi and course materials).

• Service-Learning Syllabi Examples from University of Vermont

• Service-Learning Syllabi Examples from West Virginia University

• Service-Learning Syllabi Examples from University of Florida
  

  In addition to these resources, the Center for Civic Engagement maintains numerous examples of Binghamton University academic service-learning syllabi.