What is academic civic engagement?
Academic Civic Engagement (ACE) encourages students to apply what they learn in the classroom within community contexts for the common good. Often referred to as community-based research, service-learning, community-based learning and public scholarship, academic civic engagement facilitates the development of skills, habits of mind and relationships that prepare students for future internship, research, civic leadership and work roles.
How does ACE benefit the community?
Examples of benefits to the community include service-related activities such as tutoring, volunteering, and providing enrichment experiences. Examples of products students have created include marketing plans, grant proposals, statistical research, public art, theatrical and musical productions, videos, photo collections, and outreach/educational materials.
What types of projects work well for academic civic engagement?
There are a wide variety of projects that work well, and many can be modified to work if they don’t seem to fit at first, so whatever your idea, consider contacting us to explore the options. Some variables to consider are the timing and schedule. Students are available for fall and spring semesters of the academic year, September through early May (except for breaks.) January Term is a one-month term during January when students enroll in just one course and work intensively on that topic. Work with community partners may happen during class-time or outside of class time, depending on the activities. Transportation is another consideration. Students have access to a variety of options such as buses, biking, and walking, but generally do not have cars.
How do I partner with you for an ACE course?
We’ve prepared this Community Partner Guide to help orient you towards working with Oles and the college, tips for successful partnerships, and more!
Whom do I contact with questions?
Alyssa Herzog Melby, Program Director for Academic Civic Engagement, at 507-786-2184 or melby1@stolaf.edu
What are other related departments and offices at St. Olaf where I could connect with students?
- Piper Center for Vocation and Career (To advertise and host internships)
- Volunteer Network (To connect with student volunteers & organizations)
- Community-Based Work-Study (To hire a student with work-study)
- Education Department (To connect with our teacher licensure program)