1 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

What are students saying about SL? “This was the first time where the effort I put into a project was rewarded by helping other instead of just helping my GPA. I found it very rewarding”

“…a unique experience to be able to expand on your learning and understanding of a subject from outside of the classroom”

“All I can think is how we talked about an association of individuals versus a community of persons. We definitely started out as an association of individuals when we started this class. But now that we`ve worked together and succeeded in our goal with this (service learning) project I definitely think we are a community of people. It was a great experience to be part of the transformation for sure” “The service learning project is different. The grading aspect was so far removed from the conversation we forgot it was there. The project was dynamic. We were working together towards a common goal instead of competing with each other.”

Saint Mary’s University - Service Learning Office

Student Centre- 4th Floor Saint Mary’s University

923 Robie Street

E: Service.Learning@smu.ca P: (902) 491-6572

Visit our website: https://www.smu.ca/campus-life/service-learning.html

Service Learning (SL)

Student

Handbook

2 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. What is Service Learning (SL)? …………………………………………………. p. 3

2. SL Models ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… p. 4

3. Benefits of SL ………………………………………………………………………………………………… p. 5

4. SL Student Orientation …………………………………………………………………………………. p. 6

5. SL Student Expectations ………………………………………………………………………………. p. 7

5.1 How can I contribute to a successful SL experience?

5.2 How can I prepare for my SL placement/project?

6. Other SL Roles & Responsibilities …………………………………………………………………. p. 11

a. The Faculty Member

b. The Community Partner

c. The Service Learning Office

7. Facing Challenges during Your SL Experience ……………………………………………….. p. 12

7.1 What if I don’t like the SL experience I have chosen?

7.2 Student not Meeting Expectations

7.3 Emergency, Accident, or other Incident

7.4 Know Your Rights

7.5 Harassment, Discrimination, & Sexual Assault Policies

7.6 Health

7.7 Child in Danger - Duty to Report

7.8 Personal Safety

7.9 Student Emergency Contact Information

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) …………………………………………………………………… p. 15

9. Appendices ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… p. 17

a. Appendix A – SL Student Forms

b. Appendix B – Contact Information

3 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

Welcome to Service Learning at

Saint Mary’s!

1. WHAT IS SERVICE LEARNING (SL)? Service Learning (SL) is an experiential learning approach which links community-based experience with course content. SL involves a range of activities intended to benefit the service provider (the student) and the recipient (the community partner), while maintaining a focus on learning. At Saint Mary’s, various approaches and types of assignments are adopted in courses which include service learning components. Students participate in unpaid service experiences, which is in addition to regular class hours, and complete assignments which incorporate reflection about their experiences. Sometimes service learning is an optional assignment, but it may also be a required element of a course.

SL at Saint Mary's

General Guidelines

Focus on non-profits, publically funded

institutions, and/or social enterprises (both on and

off campus)

The service is designed to meet an identified

community need and acknowledges the

Community Partner as a co-educator

Includes a strong reflection component to

maximize meaningful learning

Academic credit is awarded for the students’

demonstration of learning, not for service

hours performed

Integrated throughout the term and during the

course

An unpaid opportunity, usually measured in

hours

4 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

2. SERVICE LEARNING (SL) MODELS1: There are three common models for SL. Consult your professor and/or course syllabus for more details about your specific SL opportunity.

Service Learning IS NOT:

An add-on to an otherwise unaltered academic course. SL programs are distinguished from other experiential opportunities by their intention to benefit the provider and the recipient of the service equally. Simply adding a service learning component to an already existing course with no ties to academic content and no strategies to link service opportunities with learning outcomes, fails to consider the community as a full partner, and fails to support the full range of learning opportunities for students.

Logging a certain number of hours in order to get a credit.

A volunteer or community service program where critical reflection is absent.

A practicum, internship, or co-op program intended to provide students with employment related experience only.

1 Adapted and informed by: Gaudet, M. & Turner, M. (2016). Service Learning [Powerpoint Slides] and Laurier Community Service

Learning Office (2017). Student Handbook – Community Service Learning. Wilfrid Laurier University.

Placement Based

Students have a presence in the community throughout the term.

Usually DIRECT service:working with others, face-to-face and

person-to-person.

Example: Criminology students tutoring and mentoring at-risk youth through an

after-school program.

Project Based (Consultation/Research)

Students work with a Community Partner to conduct a project and

deliver a specific outcome over the course of a semester.

Usually INDIRECT service (or a blend):typically involves a project with an

impact on the community as a whole.

Example: Business students who collaborate

with a new social enterprise to create a marketing plan.

Create New Services

Students may collaborate with Community Partner to create new

services to help address a community identified need.

This may include a combination of DIRECT and INDIRECT approaches.

Example: Computer Science students who

collaborate with seniors to develop inclusive software.

5 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

3. BENEFITS OF SL2:

Service Learning (SL) benefits all participants:

2 Gemmel, L. J. & Clayton, P. H. (2009). A Comprehensive Framework for Community Service-Learning in Canada. Canadian Alliance for Community-Service Learning, 18-28.

Benefits for STUDENTS

•Makes curriculum relevant through exploring and applying theory/concepts to real-life situations

•Offers opportunities to broaden knowledge and practice and deepen skills, such critical thinking, problem-solving, research, communication, and leadership

•Allows space for students to reflect on the experience and on issues of social responsibility

•Enhances social awareness and civic responsibility

•Allows students to reflect on their own personal values and challenge their presumptions about certain populations and social issues in the community

•Gives students an opportunity to contribute to and build relationships in the community

Benefits for FACULTY MEMBERS

•Incorporates theory/concepts taught in class with community identified opportunities

•Encourages students to be more engaged in class by reflecting on their experiences and drawing connections to course content and objectives

•Enriches the teaching and learning process

•Encourages innovation, collaboration, and partnership building with community organizations that can potentially lead to university-community research partnerships

•Communities serve as an additional space for learning

Benefits for COMMUNITY PARTNERS

•Provides additional human resources, which in turn allows Community Partners to increase services and accomplish goals that may otherwise not have been possible

•Recognizes and values the community and organizations as co-educators that have knowledge to share

•Extends academic knowledge and skills that students have gained through their university studies to the community

•Fosters collaboration between the university and the community

•Creates space for a youth perspective in the delivery of social programs

6 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

4. PREPARING FOR YOUR SL EXPERIENCE

Saint Mary’s University As part of SL at Saint Mary’s University, the Service Learning Office helps to orient students to their SL opportunity at

the beginning of each semester, often through a blend of in-class and online components. The purpose of this

preparation session is to prepare you for your SL experience so that you maximize the potential for both providing a

useful service to the community and a positive learning experience for yourself. Refer to your course syllabus or

instructor for specific information (date/time/location) on this session.

Generally, the Saint Mary’s SL student prep session covers:

Best practices when working with Community

Professional Conduct and SMU Policies and Procedures

The two levels of SL commitment

Confidentiality

Personal Safety and Reporting Process

Discipline specific knowledge about the populations served (e.g. working with youth)

Work ethic: professionalism, communication, punctuality, attitude, flexibility, dress code, accepting

feedback, use of electronics, teamwork, etc.

Signing the SL Student Agreement and Release of Liability Waiver/Informed Consent

Community Partner Orientation It is important, as part of your SL placement/project, that you orient yourself to the Community Partner and their programs and clientele. In addition to the SL orientation you will receive through Saint Mary’s, all students should receive some form of orientation from the Community Partner. The nature of this orientation will depend on the Community Partner, the type of work the student will be engaged in with the organization, and the number of students involved. The SL Orientation & Safety Checklist is a tool that can be utilized by students during the first meeting and/or orientation with their Community Partner to help orient that student to the organization, their programs and clientele, including questions to ask in order to ensure the students understand applicable organizational policies and procedures.

It is your responsibility as a SL student to ensure that you understand the information presented, ask questions, and seek clarification or additional information when you aren’t clear about expectations.

Any orientation should clarify mutual expectations and make you feel valued, wanted, and welcomed.

7 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

5. SL STUDENT EXPECTATIONS:

5.1 How can I contribute to a successful SL experience? There are many factors that will determine the success of your SL experience. Some of these factors are out of your

control (i.e. the weather, program cancellations/closures, illness of clients, etc.). However, the one factor you can

control is YOU and how much you give to the SL experience will affect how much you get out of it. SL experiences

involve working with other professionals and it is expected that SL students’ work ethic will be similar to those of

competent full-time staff in a similar service.

SL Students have a dual responsibility to provide a service to the identified Community Partner and learn from the experience of providing the service3. SL students are expected to:

1. Demonstrate a commitment to the course and to the Community Partner

Recognize that others are depending on your attendance and participation.

Attend and complete the Saint Mary’s SL Student Orientation and any necessary training/orientation with your Community Partner.

Complete any organizational requirements (e.g. record checks, immunizations, references, etc.) before the start of your SL placement/project

Complete course requirements and the SL placement/project to the best of your ability

Acknowledge that you are representing Saint Mary’s University by acting in a professional manner and adhering to the Code of Student Conduct throughout the SL placement/project.

Know your rights and responsibilities and adhere to Saint Mary’s policies regarding violence in the workplace, sexual assault, harassment and discrimination, and reporting incidents and injuries.

Respect and maintain the confidentiality of personal and organizational information obtained during your SL placement/project.

Inform the course instructor and Service Learning Office if any accommodations are required before the start of your SL placement/project

Advise the Service Learning Office promptly (as early as possible) of any concerns or issues with respect to the SL placement/project.

Complete and submit all required SL forms by the deadlines (See Appendix A on page 16 for more detail):

SL Student Agreement form i. DUE: prior to starting the placement (usually by the 3rd week of the term).

SL Student Completion form i. DUE: Submit to your instructor by the last day of class.

Ask questions when expectations are not clear, and be open to unexpected learning.

2. Recognize that the quality of the SL experience is directly proportional to the effort you put into it

Observe others and offer to help out when you are able.

Take initiative; if there is something you would like to do, suggest it to your site-supervisor.

Patience is important, as community work does not always have a consistent pace.

Identify skills and interests which you could offer in service to the organization.

Be mindful of your technology usage. Be professional and avoid texting, using social media, talking on the phone, listening to music on headphones, etc. during your SL experience.

Be open to unexpected learning and learn from both the positive and challenging experiences.

Ask for clarification! Do not complain that you did not know what to do if you did not ask.

3 Adapted and informed by: Gaudet, M. & Turner, M. (2016). Service Learning [Powerpoint Slides] and Laurier Community Service

Learning Office (2017). Student Handbook – Community Service Learning. Wilfrid Laurier University.

8 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

3. Communicate with your Community Partner site-supervisor

Be polite and professional when speaking with your site-supervisor (phone, email, and in person).

Know your role within the organization and the boundaries for your SL placement/project. Ask for clarification when needed.

Ask about the history and the mission of the organization to help put your SL experience into context.

Be aware of your site-supervisor’s schedule.

Document what you accomplish during your SL placement/project.

Do not expect continuous attention from your site-supervisor. They have other responsibilities in addition to supervising you.

UNPROFESSIONAL Communication – Things to Avoid!

• Negative attitude, being rude/short tempered, unclear or confusing messages

• Using an unprofessional or outdated personal email (e.g. soccerman69@hotmail.ca, browneyes@yahoo.com)

• (Email) Spelling mistakes, text message abbreviations (e.g. lol, g2g), no formal greeting and/or farewell

• Expecting an immediate reply, not acknowledging supervisor’s schedule and/or organization hours of operation (e.g. emailing at 11:00pm and expecting a reply in the morning)

• Expecting the organization to ONLY accommodate your schedule

• Not asking for help, waiting until the end of term to raise concerns

Communicating with Your Community Partner: You are responsible for contacting your site-supervisor within 2 working days of receiving approval from

your professor regarding your SL placement/project.

Be polite and professional. Maintain a positive attitude.

Be clear with your questions and needs.

If writing (email), use a business letter format with a salutation (e.g. Dear Mr. Smith), full sentences, paragraphs, proper use of upper and lowercase lettering, proper grammar and spelling, and a proper farewell (e.g. Sincerely).

o Use a professional email account and check it regularly

Let them know that you would like to set up an initial meeting/orientation with them at their convenience.

o Provide a list of days and times that you are available to meet.

Use common language, not language that is specific to your discipline o Example: Let them know what course you are taking (by name, not code)

Allow ample time for your Community Partner to reply to an email or phone message o Acknowledge and respect their schedule and operation hours o If they have not replied to you within 3 business days, then try again using all means of

communication that you have been given (e.g. email and phone).

If you are having difficulty contacting your Community Partner, notify the Service Learning Office

Bring your SL Orientation and Safety Checklist to your first meeting.

9 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

4. Maintain confidentiality and respect the dignity of everyone you are working with

Respect and maintain the confidentiality of personal and organizational information obtained during your SL placement/project.

o As part of your SL placement/project, you may be asked to discuss and reflect on your experience (e.g. paper, journal, class discussions, etc.). DO NOT reveal names, personal information, and/or identifying descriptions (such as the girl with pink hair).

o DO NOT provide, share, distribute, or discuss any information obtained during the SL

placement/project on social media, the internet, television, radio, or any other medium.

Treat organizational files and personal stories as privileged information. DO NOT remove organizational files or documents from the organization unless given prior permission to do so.

Be conscious and avoid criticizing or complaining about how an organization does something when speaking with staff, clients, volunteers, etc. If you have an issue or complaint about a process, speak with your site-supervisor. If they cannot resolve it, contact your professor and the Service Learning Office.

5. Accept Feedback and Take Initiative

SL is collaborative, and therefore, it is important that you are prepared to accept feedback from your site-supervisor

and other members of the Community Partner organization.

Maintain a positive attitude, show enthusiasm, and be willing to learn.

Accepting feedback can be challenging. Maintain a professional attitude when receiving feedback and

constructive criticism, take the suggestions into consideration, ask questions to clarify, and incorporate the

feedback into your service.

Recognize that the Community Partner and community members have knowledge and experiences to share

with you that may differ from your own but can contribute to the learning experience. Therefore, it is

important that you do not assume that you know how to solve perceived “problems” or that you know their

clients’/populations’ preferences. Communication is important, so ask questions if things are unclear.

6. Know the rules of your SL placement/project and follow them

Understand the need for criminal record checks, references, and confidentiality pledges.

Don’t expose others to illness. Ask about the policy of your specific Community Partner organization regarding attendance when you are sick. The definition of ‘sick’ may change based on the population being served (for instance children or elderly persons).

Adhere to the Community Partners’ policies regarding the use of electronics, the dress code, etc.

Don’t report to your Community Partner site under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

7. Understand your own personal biases and avoid imposing these biases on others Everyone has personal opinions and biases, but they should be stated with personal ownership and without

pressuring or convincing others to accept them. These might include:

Criticism of others or organizations/institutions

Disenchantment (no longer believing in something, especially having learned the problems of it)

Strong value judgements that ask someone to deal with your own personal agenda

10 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

5.2 How can I prepare for my SL experience?

Consider the following questions: What are my course objectives/outcomes?

What am I bringing to this SL experience which will be needed? (skills, knowledge, attributes, values, etc.)

What reflection methods will I use in this course to critically reflect on this experience? (journal, report,

presentation, etc.)

What resources can I utilize to get the most from my SL experience?

o Academic: Library, faculty, course materials, peers, etc.

o Organizational: Site-supervisor, staff, volunteers, agency information, clients, etc.

o Other: workshops, training programs, etc.

What questions do I have for my professor or my Community Partner site-supervisor?

If I have problems during my SL experience, who do I turn to?

Learn about the Community

Research your Community Partner and the Community setting before you begin your placement/project.

o Visit their website, social media accounts, etc. and read about their mission, goals, and clientele.

Take initiative to learn about existing strengths, as well as needs, in the community. Take time to visit the

Community Partner site, speak with staff and participants, but also take time to listen and observe.

Remember, SL is a learning opportunity and is about doing with the community, not for.

Be Punctual and Dependable

As part of your commitment to your SL course and your Community Partner, you are required:

To show up when you are scheduled to be at your placement.

To ensure that you have a reliable means of getting to your placement/project on time.

Provide your site-supervisor adequate notice if you are ill or unable to make it.

Be Flexible, Open-minded, and Realistic about what you can accomplish

Understand that you should be prepared to offer a degree of flexibility and openness in respond to the changing demand of your Community Partner.

Be open-minded, listen, and try to understand. Remember that this is a learning experience and that no one

expects you to be perfect or have all of the answers.

Expect uncertainty at first. Your level of comfort and responsibility will increase as the semester progresses.

SL experiences should bring you out of your comfort zone. Discomfort can give you fresh eyes, challenge you, and allow space for creativity and growth!

Examples of GOOD Discomfort: Examples of BAD Discomfort: Nervousness

Being challenged

Uncertainty

New experiences, new ideas

Unsafe working conditions at your placement

Harassment

Bullying

Violence in the workplace

If, at any time, you are not sure if a particular activity is safe, ethical, or appropriate, do not try to resolve the issue alone. Please notify your professor and the SMU Service Learning Office as soon as possible if there is an issue you

feel cannot be resolved at the Community Partner level, and you need assistance.

11 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

6. OTHER SL ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Faculty Member: The faculty member responsible for instructing the course helps the student connect their service experience to the

learning objectives of the course through reflection activities and assignments such as writing journals, reflection

papers, or group discussions. The instructor is also responsible for:

Determining course learning objectives/outcomes

Collaborating with the SL Office and community partner to establish the parameters of the SL experience and prepare students to begin their placements/projects

Developing student assignments and opportunities for reflection, which supports students to link service to the course content, think critically, and learn from their experiences

Guiding and monitoring students

Grading assignments

The Community Partner: For Saint Mary’s SL, Community Partners tend to be local, non-profit organizations, publically funded institutions (schools/government agencies), and/or social enterprises that provide service or development in the community. A site-supervisor is identified within each Community Partner and is responsible for overseeing the student(s) in their service experience.

Generally, students can expect the Community Partner site-supervisor to:

Be available during the first few weeks of the term to connect with and schedule students

Orient students to organization’s mission, policies, procedures, occupational health and safety requirements, and site-specific information (bus routes, washrooms, exits, etc.)

Clearly communicate expectations about the SL placement/project; defining the goals of service, expected outcomes/deliverables, identifying a time-line, and any necessary restrictions

Supervise and support students throughout the placement

Verify student hours and provide feedback on student performance and the SL placement overall

The Service Learning Office The Service Learning Office is responsible for the overall coordination of the Service Learning program and acts as liaison between the university and the community, including:

Providing background material on Service Learning to assist faculty in getting started

Assisting faculty members in developing and planning logistic related activities to support service learning placements

Meeting with community organizations regarding opportunities for student learning

Developing and facilitating required information to all key stakeholders related to Service Learning placements, such as faculty, staff, students, and community partners

Developing and maintaining a database of service learning opportunities to include: Community Partner contact information, organization skill/knowledge requirements, any pre-training, background check, and/or immunization requirements, total number of students the Community Partner is willing to supervise, total hours of service work in term, time requirements/restrictions, accessibility to public transit, and any other relevant information

Helping to orient and prepare students to begin their SL experience, which includes determining any required preparatory measures and facilitating a process to complete them

Serving as a point of contact for community partners regarding any questions, issues, or concerns, and liaising with faculty on an as needed basis

Collecting evaluative feedback from students, faculty, and Community Partners

12 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

7. FACING CHALLENGES DURING YOUR SL EXPERIENCE:

7.1 What if I don’t like the SL experience that I have chosen? The vast majority of students have a very positive experience at their community organization. Occasionally, a student may be unhappy with their placement. If this is the situation for you, please talk to someone. It is important to be proactive and solve the problem early on. Through communication, most issues can be resolved in a manner that is acceptable to everyone. If, at any time, you are not sure if a particular activity is safe, ethical, or appropriate, do not try to resolve the issue alone. Please notify your professor and the SMU Service Learning Office as soon as possible if there is an issue you feel cannot be resolved at the Community Partner level, and you need assistance.

Consider what you dislike or what you might find challenging: Is there something that we can do to change the experience? Do you need more or different support from your Community Partner?

When should I talk to?

My Faculty Member (Course Instructor)

My Community Partner (Site-Supervisor)

The Service Learning Office

Speak to your instructor first:

Any questions related to the academic component of your course (assignments, course content, learning objectives, etc.)

Grading and the value of your grade

If the problem is an ethical issue

If you dropped the course

If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe at your SL placement

If you have a valid reason for not being able to complete your SL placement/project

Speak to your Community Partner first:

Any questions regarding the organization, its mandate or clientele, or the tasks assigned should be directed to the Community Partner site-supervisor

If you have a valid reason for missing a shift (illness, weather, program cancellations, etc.) and need to re-schedule to make up the hours

If you want to participate in a SL opportunity that is not on your course list

Conflicts or concerns with your Community Partner site-supervisor

If a change in supervision has occurred at your Community Partner

If you dropped the course

If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe at your SL placement

If you have a valid reason for not being able to complete your SL placement/project

7.2 STUDENT NOT MEETING EXPECTATIONS: Remember that SL experiences are learning experiences and that you are representing Saint Mary’s University, your

professor, your program, and the Service Learning Office. Therefore, if you are consistently not meeting

expectations, this will have a negative impact on your Service Learning (SL) experience.

SL experiences are integrated into your course, and are a part of your academic record, thus, you are subject to the

Code of Student Conduct throughout the SL placement/project, whether on or off campus.

Examples of unacceptable behavior include:

Consistently arriving late to your SL placement/project

Unexcused or unexplained absences from your SL placement/project

Breaching confidentiality

Refusal to adapt or change behavior based on feedback from your Community Partner

Being dishonest when reporting SL hours/deliverables or knowingly falsifying documents

Theft, and/or deliberate or reckless damage to Community Partner property

Conduct which threatens or endangers the health, safety, and/or well-being of anyone in their capacity as a

member of the university community, on or off campus

Unethical behavior, such as performing research on program participants without consent from Saint

Mary’s Research Ethics Board

13 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

7.3 EMERGENCY, ACCIDENT, OR OTHER INCIDENT: In an emergency situation, please call 9-1-1. Please contact your site-supervisor and the Service Learning Office after the threat has passed to report and manage the incident:

Saint Mary’s University

Ensure that you read and understand Saint Mary’s procedure for reporting incidents and injuries.

Regardless whether the incident or injury occurred on or off campus, an Injury/Incident Report Form will need to be completed for Saint Mary’s University. Contact the Service Learning Office for support.

Community Partner

Your Community Partner will have their own procedure for reporting incidents and injuries, so please be sure to adhere to that as well, and ask your site-supervisor if you are unclear about how to proceed.

7.4 KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: The Right to Refuse You have the right to refuse work during your SL placement/project for which you have reasonable grounds for believing that the work is likely to endanger your health or safety or the health or the safety of someone else.

You also have the responsibility to work safely during your SL experience and adhere to any organizational policies and procedures at your Community Partner.

If, at any time, you are not sure if a particular activity is safe, ethical, or appropriate, do not try to resolve the issue alone. Please notify your professor and the SMU Service Learning Office as soon as possible if there is an issue you

feel cannot be resolved at the Community Partner level, and you need assistance.

7.5 HARASSMENT, DISCRIMINATION, & SEXUAL ASSAULT POLICIES:

SL experiences, although a form of experiential learning, occur on and/or off campus in various workplaces and organizations. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the resources available if you feel unsafe while participating in your SL experience. Saint Mary’s Policies on Sexual Assault, Violence in the Workplace, and Conflict Resolution, and the Prevention and Resolution of Harassment and Discrimination applies to incidents that occur in the course of work or study, including activities held off-campus, such as SL placements/projects.

1. Review Saint Mary’s Policy on Conflict Resolution, and the Prevention and Resolution of Harassment and Discrimination. o It is the responsibility of all members of the University community to contribute to a respectful

environment for work and study. This policy applies to incidents that occur in the course of work or study, including activities held off-campus, such as Course Based Service Learning (SL) placements/projects.

2. Review the Sexual Assault Policy and Procedure. o The following are some examples of internal and external supportive services for students, faculty and

staff involved in cases of sexual assault. Victims/survivors of sexual assault can decide whether or not to access available services and to choose the services they feel will be most beneficial to them:

• S.A.N.E. (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners Program) 902-425-0122 avalonsane@eastlink.ca • Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Case Manager 902-471-8129 • Emergency 911 • Saint Mary’s University Security 902-420-5000 • Halifax Regional Police 902-490-5020 (non-emergencies) www.halifax.ca/Police • Avalon Centre 902-422-4240 www.avaloncentre.ca

o Please refer to the Sexual Assault Policy and Procedure for more support services and resources or visit the website.

3. Review the Violence in the Workplace: Prevention and Response Policy. o Saint Mary’s University acknowledges that physical violence/threatening behaviour in the workplace is an

occupational health and safety hazard that can cause physical and emotional harm. All members of the University community, including faculty, staff, students and visitors, are responsible for the creation and maintenance of a safe environment.

14 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

7.6 HEALTH: Please use your judgement when it comes to your personal health. Consider the populations and clients that you are

interacting with during your SL placement/project and minimize the spread of disease and illness, especially if

working in nursing homes, hospitals, daycares, and schools. If you are feeling ill, it is advised that you notify your

Community Partner site-supervisor and stay home. However, you are encouraged to ask about the policy of your

specific Community Partner organization regarding attendance when you are sick.

7.7 CHILD IN DANGER – DUTY TO REPORT: Since many of the SL Community Partners work with and/or support children or youth, it is important to be aware of

the Duty to Report.

The Children and Family Services Act is designed to protect children from abuse and neglect. The legislation outlining

the “Duty to Report” highlights the legal obligation of every Nova Scotian to report concerns of abuse or neglect of a

child in order to ensure that children are protected from harm.

Every individual in the province of Nova Scotia has a legal obligation to report concerns of abuse or neglect of a child

under the age of 19 in order to ensure children are protected from harm. Failure to report is a criminal offence.

If a disclosures happens during your SL experience, inform your Community Partner site-supervisor of the disclosure

IMMEDIATELY! The Community Partner will have a protocol to follow in this situation and will support you with the

reporting process. DO NOT ask the child any questions or pursue the discussion. Your role is to report the disclosure

and let the professional organization do its job.

7.8 PERSONAL SAFETY:

Whenever you enter a community setting, questions about personal safety may arise. If at any time during your SL placement/project you feel unsafe, you have the right to leave. However, if you do so, it is your responsibility to notify your site-supervisor (if you feel comfortable doing so), as well as the Service Learning Office and outline your reasons for leaving.

Suggestions for maintaining personal safety: Plan ahead. If you are unfamiliar with your Community Partner’s location, plan your route and travel times

before you arrive (i.e. map out the bus route, carpool with a friend, etc.). o Visit the Halifax Transit website for Routes and schedules

Leave personal valuables at home or ask your site-supervisor for a safe place to store items.

Do not offer rides in your personal vehicle to people from the organization.

Do not engage in any financial exchanges with the organization’s clients, participants, or residents.

Do not give personal information (such as your address, email or phone number) to people from the organization unless authorized to do so.

Immediately report any incidents, real or perceived, which make you feel unsafe. Report them to both your site-supervisor and the SMU Service Learning Office.

Maintain professional relationships and boundaries with the site-supervisor, staff, clients, participants, and residents at all times.

Do not hesitate to seek assistance if you have questions or concerns.

7.9 STUDENT EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION: Ensure your emergency contact information is up to date:

Log into Banner Self Service, go to the “Personal Information” tab and review/update your emergency contact information.

Emergency contact information will be kept confidential and only accessed by the Registrar in the event of an individual emergency.

15 SL Student Handbook – September 2018

8. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ’S):

How is Service Learning different from volunteering, a co-op, an internship, or a practicum? Service Learning (SL) is an unpaid experiential learning opportunity, usually measured in hours, which is integrated throughout the term and during the course. SL programs are distinguished from other approaches to experiential education by their intention to equally benefit the provider and the recipient of the service, as well as to ensure equal focus on both the service being provided and the learning that is occurring4 (Furco, 1996, p. 12-14). The service to the community is integrated into a course in a way that supports or enhances existing academic standards and expectations, through related readings, presentations, and assignments. Students are also provided ongoing opportunities for reflection, which helps to deepen analysis of the course objectives by asking students to think critically, make meaning and extract learning out of their experiences, identify how their understanding of course content, thoughts, and beliefs change over the semester, and allows space for potential transformation.

Experiential Learning Continuum adapted from Furco (1996), p. 104

What does a typical placement look like? SL placements/projects cover a broad spectrum of opportunities but generally occur at verifiable non-profit, social profit, or publically funded institutions (government agency/school). Suitable placements depend on course-level and individual learning objectives, which helps to ensure that the service to the community is integrated into a course in a way that supports or enhances existing academic standards and expectations, provides the student an opportunities to reflect and think critically, and cultivate reciprocity between the student and the community partner.

4 Furco, A. (1996). Service Learning: A Balanced Approach to Experiential Education. Introduction to Service Learning Toolkit: Readings

and Resources for Faculty (2nd ed.), Campus Compact, 9-18.

Experiential Learning Continuum

Course-Based Service Learning

Volunteering Field Study, Practicum,

Clinical Placement, Co-op

Where is the Focus?

Who Benefits?

Student Community

Service Learning

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Can I do Service Learning anywhere I want? No. SL placements/projects can only be performed at an approved Community Partner that is on the list distributed by

your course instructor and/or the Service Learning Office. If you have a suggestion that is not on the list, please consult

with your course instructor and the Service Learning Office. Remember, you must receive approval for a new

Community Partner BEFORE you start your SL experience there!

Do I get course credit for my SL placement/project? Yes, you do receive course credit from your SL experience. Service to the community is integrated into the course in a

way that supports or enhances existing academic standards and expectations, through related readings, presentations,

reflection, and assignments. In this sense, academic credit is for learning, not for service, and is awarded for your

demonstration of learning as it relates to the course. Consult your professor regarding how you will be graded and the

value of your grade.

What are reflective assignments and what do they have to do with SL? The reflective process is what turns a volunteering position in a SL experience. Your professor is responsible for assigning reflective assignments to help evaluate your SL experience. This can be accomplished through various models (i.e. reflective essay, journals, class presentation, group discussions, etc.) but reflective assignments offer a space to critically analyze your SL experience, connect it to your course objectives, outcomes, and/or theories, and identify how what you have learned can be used in the real world.

What happens if I miss hours due to storms, illness, or cancellations? If you have a legitimate reason for missing a day, please let your Community Partner site-supervisor know right away. They can help you to arrange another time to make up the hours you missed. If this is not possible, please contact your Community Partner site-supervisor and the SMU Service Learning Office to come up with a solution. It is important that you complete all of your SL hours in order to uphold your commitment and for deeper learning to occur.

What happens if I cannot complete my SL placement/project at the agreed-upon site? A valid reason must be presented in writing for failure to complete the SL experience. Contact must be made with your course professor, the site-supervisor and the Service Learning Office to inform them of your desire to leave the program and the reasons for the departure. Your professor will determine the effect this departure will have on your course work or grade.

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APPENDIX A:

SL STUDENT FORMS & DOCUMENTS: All student forms/documents are available on the SL website.

What is a SL Student Agreement form? The SL student agreement form is a document that outlines information about you and your placement/project, as well as an agreement to complete all aspects of your SL experience. TIMELINE: You complete this form BEFORE beginning your SL placement/project.

What is a SL Student Completion form? The SL Completion form serves as an official record of completion of your SL placement/project. TIMELINE: The student completes this form with their Community Partner and submits it to the course instructor BEFORE the last class (or by the deadline given by the instructor).

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What is a SL Student Orientation & Safety Checklist? It is important, as part of your SL placement/project, that you orient yourself to the Community Partner and their programs and clientele. The SL Student Orientation & Safety Checklist contains some information you need to understand and you should be able to answer these questions after the orientation provided by the organization/agency and/or after the first meeting with your Community Partner. TIMELINE: Use this form as a tool during your first meeting and/or orientation with your Community Partner.

What is the SL Security Check Procedure?

The SL Security Check Procedure provides you with information about how and where to complete record checks that

may be required for your SL placement/project. These may include:

Criminal Record and/or Vulnerable Sector Check

Child Abuse Registry Check

If you need assistance obtaining a Record Check for your SL experience, please contact the Service Learning Office.

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APPENDIX B:

CONTACT INFORMATION

Service Learning Office Student Centre 4th Floor, Room 406 P: (902) 491-6572 E: Service.Learning@smu.ca

Nikki Cater Service Learning Program Assistant

E: Service.Learning@smu.ca P: (902) 491-6572

Sarah Bray Service Learning Placement Coordinator E: Sarah.Bray@smu.ca P: (902) 491-8611

Conflict Resolution Advisor: While the University has no control over organizations who host students for SL placements, students should

report incidents of harassment, which occur outside the University during SL placements/projects. The Conflict

Resolution Advisor is available to service learning students to discuss incidents and options.

Bridget Brownlow Conflict Resolution Advisor Room 416, Student Centre E: Bridget.Brownlow@smu.ca P: (902) 420-5113

Career Services: Career Services offers Students and Alumni a comprehensive package of services and resources to help with the transition into university, developing academic and career directions throughout university and successfully move into graduate or professional schools and the world of work. Students and Alumni receive assistance via individual career counselling, through the Career Development Centre or via the Co-Curricular Record Centre. To learn more or to book an appointment, contact:

4th Floor Student Centre E: career.services@smu.ca P: (902) 420-5761 W: http://www.smu.ca/campus-life/career-services.html