Begin it Now: Critical Service Learning in the First Year of College

Abstract

Abstract While there is a rich array of community-based learning activities and approaches across the Portland State University campus, the authors assert that integrating a critical service learning (CSL), rather than traditional service learning (TSL), model in the first-year curriculum benefits both students and community partners. They advocate for scaffolding CSL throughout the college curriculum beginning in the first year so that as students move through their courses they repeatedly practice the dynamic skill set CSL develops. To that end, they utilize a CSL Process Framework of five essential steps to consider when scaffolding it within the first year: The Plan, Etiquette of Collaboration, Critical Reflection, Engaging Student Agency, and Civic Professionalism (Estes, 2018). The authors describe how each element manifests in three very different examples of CSL within their respective Freshman Inquiry courses. Although this article focuses upon CSL in the first year of college, the CSL Process Framework is applicable across course levels. After presenting examples of how each element manifests as they integrate CSL into their courses and careers, the authors discuss the challenges and implications of this work within their courses, University Studies, and general education.