Partner Frequently Asked Questions
- There really is no set number of students that participate at an agency during any giving term. Students are given the opportunity to determine their own service site based on their own learning goals, interests, scheduling concerns, etc. Agencies can increase the likelihood of attracting students by participating in Miami-Dade College and College Institute for Civic Engagement and Democracy events, such as the Expos held at each campus. For reference, past statistics are as follows:
- Approximately 300+ faculty participate in service-learning annually;
- More than 47,000 students have contributed in excess of 1 million hours;
- 200 community partners participate annually.
- On-going projects from the beginning of the term to the end of the term;
- One day events;
- Class projects; e.g., brochures, marketing ideas (designing t-shirts, posters, etc.).
- The process students undergo to derive meaning from service-learning experience;
- Reflection is what makes the service SERVICE-LEARNING.
- Discuss the organization’s mission statement with the students;
- Relay the organization’s objectives/goals to the students;
- Provide articles about your agency/clients/social problems;
- Offer exit interviews/questionnaires as an opportunity for open dialogue;
- Present “Mini research projects” to the students;
- Process meetings with the students;
- Encourage students to write reflective assignments about their experience;
- Offer critical thinking questions.
- View "Reflection and the Role of the Agency"
- Student Forms:
- Service-Learning Contract
- Hour Report & Student Evaluation
- Community Partner Form
- Letter of Understanding
- Website: www.mdc.edu/10ksb
- Why do you want to do your service here?
- What do you want to learn from this experience?
- For what class are you doing this service-learning project?
- May I see your syllabus?
- Use a Site description that is concise, appealing, clear, and includes requirements;
- Attend College Institute for Civic Engagement and Democracy Expos;
- Be available for class presentations (good way to recruit service-learning students);
- Create long-term partnerships with MDC faculty;
- Form relationships with C10ksb staff.
- Agency description must be reviewed and updated twice a year through our online process;
- If a new volunteer coordinator is hired, that person must attend our community partner workshop (held in June and December);
- Stay involved!
- Any accommodations that an agency has for those with disabilities should be noted on the sit description.
- It is the responsibility of the agency to provide liability insurance.
- Orient and supervise service-learners and provide safe working environment;
- Complete service-learning paperwork;
- Discuss precautions, provide guidance on how to reduce risk;
- Select students who have skills needed and remember that you select candidates;
- Ensure open and regular communication;
- Ensure students share with supervisors if they feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
- What kinds of insurance do you have that covers volunteers?
- What measures are in place (or could be put in place) to reinforce safety and avoid negligence?