Roles and Responsibilities

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A Toolkit from University of Maine at Augusta, and University of Southern Maine

Print Version of the Toolkit: uma.edu/faculty-cedoc

Set learning objectives for the service‐learning project closely related to the course content
Design syllabus with links between the potential service‐learning project and course content
Structure time for ongoing reflection on the service‐learning project throughout the semester
Discuss service‐learning project with students to identify purpose, requirements, and expectations
Serve as a contact for the project partners and check in periodically for feedback
Evaluate student learning in service‐learning component; focusing on achievement of learning outcomes, not only time dedicated to project
Require students to reflect on the experience regularly, as well as to provide regular and consistent updates with project deliverables so you can track progress
Hold students accountable for completing all parts of the project; because community partners relationships are impacted by student contributions, consider this when you set the incentives for work completion in your course design

Meet with student to educate about agency and determine projects
Understand course learning goals and develop projects combining these goals with the community needs
Identify projects, in collaboration with service‐learning student, that are significant and appropriate for rigor level
Provide or identify training or resources needed to conduct project
Ensure safe work environment in-person or safe-access to content if online
Inform students of organization’s purpose, policies, procedures, issues, and population served
Maintain open communication with student and faculty member about project progress
Identify main project liaison at organization--a specific person who can represent the Community Partner during set-up, review, and revision sessions

Contact the Community Partner
Discuss with the organization the course goals, potential service‐learning projects, and expectations
Serve as prime contact with Community Partner; in some cases--depending on the instructor’s course design--learners may be responsible for identifying and contracting with partners directly
Fulfill all duties and responsibilities of project as assigned by faculty member
Respect rules, regulations and confidentiality standards of partner
Maintain open communication with faculty and Community Partner
Track hours or document project participation as required and check-in with instructor regularly; don’t hesitate to ask a question of the instructor
Participate in reflection activities and assignments
Complete evaluation and reflection at conclusion of project
Be flexible with changes to project, instructor guidance, and guidance from Community Partners
Demonstrate respect and positivity while at placement site