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Flexible and Accessible Service-Learning

We can create SL opportunities that are more flexible and accessible. This page outlines SL options that can be completed remotely. Contact karabrascia@boisestate.edu for support.

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Examples of Remote Project-Based SL

Conduct background research on the issue, or gather best practices requested by a community partner.

  • Ex: URBAN: research sustainability plans from comparable cities, then present to Boise City staff
  • Ex: POLS: Review and report on relevant legislative policies impacting the particular org or population

Advocate: help community advocates raise awareness of issues and influence policy.

Discuss advocacy as a social impact tool, research current policies or bills that affect the social issues you are discussing, have your students research other organizations’ public policy agendas, and develop a plan of action. (Note: the community partner should communicate their need, then the students dig in).

  • Ex: HEALTH: Create digital and other social media content, print program materials, or other methods for information-sharing
  • Ex: SPS: campaign to get Dollar Tree employees hazard pay raises
  • Ex: Students attend city council meetings virtually, raising an issue or answering questions

Develop resources for organizations (strategy recommendations, curriculum, devices, etc.)

  • Ex: CS: Develop curriculum to teach teens about computer safety, then share/deliver the curriculum via video (see Video Resources for Faculty and Students  and Video guidelines for educational outreach)
  • Ex: MGMT: develop/distribute ideas for neighbors to help neighbors [share food, resources], businesses helping businesses
  • Ex: EDUC: Help students and families access the internet and devices while their schools are disrupted.
  • (Note: the community partner communicates their need, then the students dig in).

Additional ideas

  • Students could systematically record their community observations (See windshield/walking survey)
  • Create digital and other social media content, print program materials, or other methods for information-sharing. See Conducting remote Outreach/Engagement 
  • Review and report on relevant legislative policies impacting the particular org or population
  • Create resources for future SL students based on their own experiences
  • Participate in online trainings in topics related to their community experience (this may not qualify as SL)

(For more ideas see also Direct vs. Indirect SLReimagining Service Learning in the Digital Age;  Social Change WheelConducting Outreach/Engagement Remotely);