Definition

Integration of academic learning with relevant, community-based work, that engages students, faculty, staff, and community members through reciprocal partnership. This work connects academic, civic, and personal learning goals to public purposes through critical reflection.

Background

Community-based learning, a form of civic engagement that is also commonly called service-learning, grew in scope with support from organizations like the Carnegie Elective Classification of Community Engagement, Campus Compact, and the National Association of Student Personnel Administrator's Lead Initiative. Community-based learning intentionally integrates service experience with learning activities and reflection. Pedagogies and practices include community-based research, civic tours, and other experiences where students understand an issue through direct work in communities with local partners. Kansas State University has a long history of this work, which included formal establishment of the Community Service Programs in the late 1980’s and continues today.

K-State Examples

• International service team program in South Africa
• Block 1A core teaching skills lab with Flint Hills Volunteer Center
• Net Positive Studio with CAPD
• Assisting with a mobile vet clinic in the region