Program Overview

Community Service Learning (CSL) Program

The Community Service Learning (CSL) program involves credited learning experiences as part of a course. If CSL is available for a class, students can participate in structured volunteer activities that meet a community need. Then, they can engage in critical reflection on what theyve learned, to increase their understanding of the class material and their field of study.

Benefits

• Apply theory to everyday situations
• Increase understanding of class content through practical experience
• Make a difference by getting involved in the community
• Gain transferable skills and real-world experience

Steps to Complete a CSL Placement

Before the Registration Period

Registration for CSL placements can begin as soon as the first day of the course.

• Log into the university system
• In the Applications section, click on Community Engagement Navigator to activate the account
• Open the account, click on Placements, and select CSL (specific courses)
• Select the course code and session, and then click Search
• Click on placement titles to read descriptions, ensuring careful reading to meet requirements and preferences
• Check security clearance for potential police record checks

During the Registration Period

• Select a placement by clicking on its title
• In the Options menu, click on Select, carefully reading consent forms
• Again, in the Options menu, click Confirm
• Placements are selected on a First Come, First Served basis; if a placement is already taken, proceed with second or third choices

After Selecting a Placement

• Contact the placement supervisor immediately to understand expectations, set a first meeting, and schedule
• Upon completing the placement, enter volunteer hours into the timesheet regularly

During the Placement

• Enter volunteer hours into the timesheet
• Click on My Timesheet, select the placement, and click View Timesheet
• After each volunteer shift, enter the date, hours completed, and a brief task description, then click Add Entry
• The placement supervisor will approve hours and complete an evaluation at the end of the term

After the Placement

• Update job search materials, such as the LinkedIn profile, to highlight the CSL experience
• The CSL placement fits best under the Volunteer Experience section of the LinkedIn profile

Adding CSL Experience to LinkedIn

1. Go to the LinkedIn profile
2. Click Add profile section Volunteer Experience
3. Complete the fields:
   • Organization: Name of the partner organization or project host
   • Role: Project title or position
   • Cause: Choose from LinkedIns list (e.g., Education, Human Rights, Environment)
   • Time Period: Example January to April
   • Description: Provide a short summary of the project focus, key contributions, and outcomes

• Optionally, mention that the experience was part of a Community Service Learning course for academic credit

Recognition

• CSL placements can be officially recognized on the Co-Curricular Record (CCR) by submitting a recognition request through the university portal

Creating a Custom Placement

For students who wish to participate in a volunteer opportunity not listed on the Community Engagement Navigator:

1. Discuss the placement with the professor to ensure it aligns with course objectives
2. Contact the Community Engagement Program Advisor to confirm the community partner meets eligibility criteria
3. Fill out the Found Own form, contacting the advisor for questions or technical support
4. Submit the Found Own form to the Community Engagement Team by the term deadline

Participating in a CSL Placement

• Refer to the PowerPoint presentation from the class for specific registration dates and the assigned Community Engagement Program Advisor
• Contact the placement supervisor shortly after selecting the placement
• Ensure the supervisor approves any outstanding hours and completes the student evaluation online by the deadline