Academics

FAQs

Values Based Learning Program FAQs

What are the major activities of the VBLP?

Building and promoting service-learning (service activity that is part of an academic course and evaluated as an academic activity)

  • Building and promoting an education for civic engagement and citizenship
  • Advocating what Martin Luther called “Christian Vocation” – that we are all called to serve and this service is rooted in our deepest values

Where can you find service-learning at Newberry?

  • In classes that have a service activity
  • In campus groups that engage in a service activity
  • In an independent service activity (that is not part of a course or team/organization service work)

What is service-learning?

“Service-Learning is a credit-bearing, educational experience in which students participate in an organized service activity that meets identified community needs and reflect on the service activity in such a way as to gain further understanding of course content, a broader appreciation of the discipline, and an enhanced sense of civic responsibility.” (Robert Bringle and Julie Hatcher, “A Service Learning Curriculum for Faculty.” The Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning. Fall 1995: 112-122.)

Why does Newberry College want you involved in service-learning?

  • Education for service and citizenship is part of our mission
  • Newberry is a Lutheran institution that takes Martin Luther’s “Christian Vocation” seriously
  • Learning by doing is effective
  • There is great need for community service in the Newberry area

What are examples of service activities in the Newberry area?

  • Working an hour a week at the Shop Around the Corner thrift store
  • Mentoring a 4th grader at Newberry Elementary School or Boundary St. School
  • Tutoring in the after-school program at Grant Homes Public Housing
  • Working with a political party to promote the importance of participating in elections and understanding political issues
  • Creating web-sites or promotional materials for a non-profit agency
  • Creating and presenting a forum, workshop, or other activity focusing on a current social or political issue (e.g., stem cell research, the Iraq war, nuclear power, wire-tapping ) as a public service, on or off campus
  • Taking children from Grant Homes on nature hikes in Lynch's Woods