Community-Engaged Learning (CEL) integrates experiences outside the classroom with an academic curriculum taught within the classroom. As one form of experiential education, community-engaged learning seeks to broaden students’ understanding of course content through activities which are, at the same time, of service to the campus and/or surrounding community. Through structured reflection on their service, students are able to test and deepen their understanding of theoretical approaches in virtually any discipline.
The Allbritton Center for the Study of Public Life provides support and resources for faculty interested in incorporating service learning into their courses. Community-Engaged Learning Initiative Grants (CELIGs) provide faculty with funds to develop their new community-engaged learning courses. Faculty who teach CEL courses often work closely with the Jewett Center for Community Partnerships.