TAMIU Service Learning Expo Set Nov. 27
Students and faculty at Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) will have an opportunity to learn about the University’s commitment to service learning at the first “Service Learning Expo,” scheduled Tuesday, Nov. 27 from 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom.
Dr. Marcela Uribe, TAMIU program director, service learning coordination/Engaging Sophomores, described service learning, which was launched at TAMIU in the Fall of 2011.
“Service learning has become a teaching strategy of significant importance in higher education. It provides an educational experience in which students participate in a credit-bearing course paired with an organized community service.
“For example, students in a leadership class will partner with a community group like the Mexican Consulate in Laredo (Language Arts in Spanish EDEC 4336), to tutor adults trying to obtain their Elementary or Middle School Certificates and, in the future, a GED. At the core of service learning are guided and structured reflections that support learning by enhancing course comprehension, integrating academic and service concepts and developing civic and social justice responsibilities,” Dr. Uribe explained.
She said the Expo offers a one-stop opportunity for TAMIU students and faculty to jointly explore the University’s service-learning opportunities.
“Service Learning Expo participants will learn about TAMIU’s service learning classes and review student exhibits and projects and their service to the community. TAMIU faculty that are already collaborating to create curricula providing experiential learning promoting civic responsibility among students will take part,” she explained.
Ten current classes offer service learning for 230 students and generate 2300 hours of community service, she said.
Among current TAMIU service learning classes are: Public Speaking (Comm 1315) with students donating infographics specially created for PILLAR, a bullying and suicide prevention program; Interpersonal Communication (Comm 2318) where students volunteer at Casa de Misericordia, learning about domestic violence and how interpersonal communication is key to preventing violence. Young Child (EDEC 2324) students are engaged in the HEB Read 3 and can be teacher aids in a structured literacy intervention.
The sponsoring TAMIU PROF (Professional Resource Opportunities for Faculty) Center promotes excellence in teaching and learning across the disciplines at TAMIU.
For additional information, contact Uribe at 956.326.3133, email marcela.uribe@tamiu.edu, click on www.tamiu.edu/profcenter or visit offices in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, room 415.
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