SERVICE LEARNING

It is a tripartite academic program, through which the student applies his academic knowledge to benefit the community with the participation of a teacher whom provides all the tools and the application of knowledge to help the student serve as an effective agent of change.

This program is neither volunteer work nor an internship program, as it is not free voluntary participation expecting no retribution neither the practical application of the student’s knowledge for personal gain.

Through Service Learning program, there is a shared benefit for all three parties; the student, the faculty and the community. The community fulfills specific needs with the academic contribution made by the student, while the school draws from the reality to improve the application of theoretical and conceptual knowledge.

Program’s criteria:

The implementation of a Service Learning degree program must have the following components:
1. Student Participation
Participation in Service Learning programs should be mandatory.
Each university faculty or department in accordance with the community must determine the number of hours of participation in the Service Learning program,  with the student’s learning and desired outcomes of the community as the primary objective.

2. Academic Program
Service Learning is by no means nor should it be an addition to the course, but it must be clearly defined in the curriculum as part of the methodology.

3. Community Service
As a complement, both the university and the student place, at the service of the community, their academic skills in order to solve a problem.

4. Ongoing assessment
On a periodic process, predetermined in the program, the student must write their reflections on their experiences, the application of their knowledge, the           contribution to the community and the effect of the Service Learning program in their personal and professional growth.

5. Monitoring
There clearly defined regular process of monitoring, by the teacher, to assess the  results of the Service Learning program in order to guide the process and make  the appropriate adjustments if necessary.

Program Focus

Volunteer service in Quito immerses students in the lives of local people while caring for those in need. It offers a deeper understanding of Ecuadorian life in a way that goes beyond the experience in traditional study abroad programs. It also facilitates mastery of Spanish and the opportunity to develop leadership skills. The program is based at Equinox Spanish School where students take required courses in Spanish language, Social Organization and Development, and 2-3 electives.

For more info e-mail us at: info@ecuadorspanish.com call us: USA phone 954-312-9815