Service Learning and General Chemistry?

Service Learning and General Chemistry? : Service Learning and General Chemistry? Sapna Gupta Park University Parkville, MO sapna@park.edu

What is Service Learning? : What is Service Learning? In a Nutshell….. Volunteer in the community. Get credit for it in school.

How is SL Different than Community Service? : How is SL Different than Community Service? Reflection is a must Time Commitment

Instructions to Students : Instructions to Students Optional activity – since there is a need for time commitment, Keeping a Journal is mandatory, Maintain a good standing in the chemistry course, Meet biweekly with me for progress update.

SL Part of Syllabus : SL Part of Syllabus Write a maximum of four reports on current topics, historical aspect. OR Do a Service Learning project for the semester.

Time Schedule : Time Schedule Tell students about the SL project at the beginning of the semester. Students respond, latest, by third week. Discuss the project in detail. Set the schedule and deadline. Discuss the assessment process.

SL Opportunities in General Chemistry : SL Opportunities in General Chemistry National Chemistry Week activities. Tutoring peers at Park University or local high schools. Mentoring at local Synergy Services. Design and carry out science experiments for elementary school kids. Any other activity students might have…..

Assessment : Assessment Meet biweekly with student to get an update. Students submit their journals biweekly for grading.

Future Plans….. : Future Plans….. Establish contacts with middle school teachers for a longer/continuous partnership. Work with local libraries to offer weekend science programs for children. Work with Park’s Civic Engagement Office to help find opportunities for students in the community……..

Future Plans contd… : Future Plans contd… Work at the interest level of student, e.g. drama, then work on a play that incorporates chemistry journalism: disseminate information on the positives and interesting aspects of chemistry in the university paper or local paper Etc…..

Taking it to Another Level : Taking it to Another Level Working on an International Health course to be offered solely as a Service Learning course in Recife, Brazil.

Thank you!! : Thank you!!