INVESTIGATION PREPARATION
Preparation for a Service-Learning Project consists of two parts: project identification and planning.
PROJECT IDENTIFICATION
Consider this first step as a needs assessment to determine what kinds of service will benefit the community and what skills your students can learn in this context.
Brainstorming a Project: Community Needs
Finding a meaningful and useful project may require some investigation. Are there community groups that could use a helping hand? What are some niches in your community that need development? Brainstorm with your students about possibilities. They could be aware of additional resources! The following people may have needs or ideas about possible projects.
They also could have resources available, including assistance, sponsorship, or expertise.
Who is your community partner? Your school? Another organization? To what extent will the partner work with you? Establish these mutual expectations early in the process.
List your ideas for projects here. This is a great opportunity for you and your students to discuss the possibilities and weigh the merits of each. Projects that are not selected may be explored another time (either as spin-offs or parts to an on-going series of service-learning projects)?
PLANNING
The following checklist provides an overview of the main considerations for planning your project. Your project may or may not require all these considerations. Description, in further detail, for each consideration follows in alphabetical order.
PROJECT IDENTIFICATION
Consider this first step as a needs assessment to determine what kinds of service will benefit the community and what skills your students can learn in this context.
Brainstorming a Project: Community Needs
Finding a meaningful and useful project may require some investigation. Are there community groups that could use a helping hand? What are some niches in your community that need development? Brainstorm with your students about possibilities. They could be aware of additional resources! The following people may have needs or ideas about possible projects.
They also could have resources available, including assistance, sponsorship, or expertise.
- Personal contacts
- Community groups
- Public agencies (forest service, library)
Who is your community partner? Your school? Another organization? To what extent will the partner work with you? Establish these mutual expectations early in the process.
List your ideas for projects here. This is a great opportunity for you and your students to discuss the possibilities and weigh the merits of each. Projects that are not selected may be explored another time (either as spin-offs or parts to an on-going series of service-learning projects)?
PLANNING
The following checklist provides an overview of the main considerations for planning your project. Your project may or may not require all these considerations. Description, in further detail, for each consideration follows in alphabetical order.