SERVICE LEARNING IN THE KIMMEL SCHOOL AT WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY

Abstract

The faculty at the Kimmel School at Western
Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina
integrates service learning experiences into their technology
courses. Curricular and co-curricular activities are
influenced by the University’s Quality Enhancement Plan
(QEP). A key element in the implementation of the QEP is a
provision requiring the faculty of each academic department
to integrate service learning into the curriculum. This paper
defines service learning and discusses examples of service
learning projects performed by the faculty and students in
each program within the Kimmel School, and the specific
outcomes sought in order to evaluate the success of service learning projects and of the QEP.

Index Terms── Service learning, student engagement,
quality, quality enhancement.