Community Service Learning presents a unique opportunity to develop a better understanding of why one might choose social work as a field of study and discover where you could make a valuable contribution in the future as a professional, volunteer and citizen. It is an opportunity for students to explore the world of practice and find social work meaning in every day life.
CSL is a required course (Soc Wlf 315) in the junior year of the BASW program, for 2 credits each quarter. Using a praxis (action and reflection) experiential learning approach, students can expect to spend up to one day a week, in a community setting each quarter, learning about the mission of the agency and engaging in direct service. The aim is to reflect on the experience through reflective logs, in-class discussions & exercises in other social work classes (e.g. HBSE and Social Work Practice).
CSL enables students to focus on the mission of the School that challenges us to "commit ourselves to promoting social and economic justice for poor and oppressed populations and enhancing the quality of life for all."
Finally, CSL is also consistent with our public service mandate, to enhance the health, wellbeing, and empowerment of disadvantaged communities and populations at local, national, and international levels. As students engage in service learning, they will hone their critical thinking skills, advocate for diversity and multiculturalism in support of social justice, while deliberating upon the political, historical and cultural context of social work practice. Students will have the opportunity to learn from community based social services professionals and the communities they are working within.
Inquiries about CSL may be directed to:
Stan de Mello, UW SSW, Community Service Learning Coordinator
demellos@u.washington.edu
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University of Washington
4101 15th Avenue NE
Seattle, WA 98105
(206) 543-5640 SSW Main Office (voice)
