As a service learning course, CC students enrolled in ED100 and ED120 become ambassadors to the Colorado Springs community. This mutually beneficial relationship serves not only teachers trying to individualize their curriculums but also challenges CC students who desire to make a difference in the world.
As an additional choice through a liaison with AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination - a national program aimed at restructuring the teaching methods of an entire school and opening access to the curricula in order to ensure four-year college eligibility to almost all students), CC students receive training, course credit, and eventually a paid tutoring position at a public school. In the past, middle school AVID students have even attended the college graduation of their tutors where they were recognized by the President of the College.
CC students in ED100 and ED120 reach out to the community and gain insights that link theory with practice. Whether or not they continue in the field of education, the impact of this semester-long, service learning experience affects them as humans, students, and contributors to society.
Students and current teachers in the field set up a schedule for the completion of forty hours. This allows flexibility during the semester as blocks change; however, consistency is encouraged in order to facilitate the development of relationships within the school setting. In the past, students have completed the practicum work by aiding two or three times a week throughout the semester or aiding daily within one or two blocks. Spending at least one full day with the cooperating teacher during a block break is encouraged.
ED100 and ED120 are offered each semester as a half credit, extended format course. Students may also take ED100 and ED120 during the half-block. Participants begin meetings in December and spend full days throughout the half-block at their placements with two seminars at CC from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Kris Stanec
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