Service Learning in Our Community

Community development through service-learning projects promotes citizenship and civic involvement in our students. In a wide selection of DCTC programs, students are required to demonstrate their commitment to community service by participating in approved service-learning projects.

Service Learning Objectives

• Convey importance of good citizenship
• Promote civic responsibility
• Expand awareness of community issues, needs and programs
• Spotlight various methods of community service
• Teach skills related to more effective and engaged community membership
• Develop professional ideals and standards through service-learning activities
• Cultivate interpersonal communication skills through participation in small-group activities
• Enhance leadership skills
• Build environment of participation among students, faculty and the community

Service Learning Benefits

Benefits to DCTC Students

• Provides civic engagement opportunities with surrounding communities, nonprofits and private businesses
• Increases awareness of issues in our community and society as a whole
• Broadens perspectives and enhances critical thinking skills
• Provides active learning opportunities that improve technical skills
• Develops leadership skills
• Builds self-confidence and interpersonal skills

Benefits to the Community

• Increases community volunteerism
• Provides access to substantial resources and expertise
• Creates opportunities for additional partnerships and collaboration with DCTC
• Encourages personal growth of future community leaders

Benefits to Local Businesses

• Increases visibility and prestige
• Establishes new connections with community groups
• Provides networking opportunities with DCTC faculty and students
• Lays groundwork for future partnerships and collaborative efforts

Benefits to the College

• Fosters student learning opportunities
• Cultivates new relationships with community groups
• Extends campus resources to the community
• Increases the college's visibility
• Aids faculty in incorporating community service into their curriculum
• Encourages individual student involvement in community service
• Documents student civic engagement activities and issues that are important to DCTC students