Definitions & Terminology
Community Engaged Learning (CEL) combines academic coursework with the application of institutional resources to address challenges facing communities through…
- engagement that addresses societal needs identified by a community partner or group
- intentional integration of learning objectives co-created with community partner(s)
- student preparation and ongoing critical reflection
- clearly articulated benefits for students, community, and campus partners
- opportunities to critically examine social issues and situate self within a community setting
*Adapted from: Michigan State University – Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Service-Learning Toolkit and Stanford Teaching Commons Community Engaged Learning for Faculty
Visual display of differences between Community Service/Volunteering and Community Engaged Learning
Figure 1: Differences between community service/volunteering & community engaged learning
Figure 2: Course-specific differences between community service/volunteering & community engaged learning
*Adapted from: Michigan State University – Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement Service-Learning Toolkit
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of the service and engagement of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners, Michigan State University was awarded the following prestigious awards in 2014
2014 U.S. President's "Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll (with Distinction)"
2014 Carnegie Foundation "Elective Community Engagement" Classification
2014 Michigan Campus Compact "Engaged Campus of the Year"