How can you engage students in community-based projects?

1 Define your goals and outcomes

Before you start planning your community-based project, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and how you will measure it. Think about the following questions: What are the learning objectives of your course or program? How does the project align with them? What are the needs or challenges of your community partner? How can your students help address them? What are the expected outcomes and impacts of the project for your students, your partner, and your community? How will you assess them? Having clear and realistic goals and outcomes will help you design a meaningful and feasible project that meets the expectations of all stakeholders.

2 Choose your partner and project

The next step is to find a suitable community partner and a specific project that matches your goals and outcomes. You can either reach out to existing organizations or groups that work on issues related to your course or program, or invite them to propose a project idea to you. You can also ask your students to identify potential partners or projects based on their interests and passions. The key is to establish a respectful and reciprocal relationship with your partner, where both parties have a say in the project design, implementation, and evaluation. You should also communicate clearly and frequently with your partner, and address any issues or challenges that may arise along the way.

3 Prepare your students and partner

Before you launch your community-based project, you need to prepare your students and your partner for the experience. You should provide your students with relevant background information, skills, and tools to work effectively with your partner and the community. You should also clarify the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of each student and group, and set some ground rules for collaboration and communication. You should also orient your partner to your course or program objectives, expectations, and assessment methods, and ensure that they have the necessary resources and support to work with your students. You should also create opportunities for your students and your partner to meet and interact before, during, and after the project.

4 Implement and monitor your project

Once you have prepared your students and your partner, you can start implementing your community-based project. Depending on the scope and duration of your project, you may have different phases or stages, such as planning, research, action, reflection, and presentation. You should provide your students with clear instructions, guidance, and feedback throughout the project, and encourage them to reflect on their learning and their impact. You should also monitor the progress and quality of your project, and make adjustments as needed. You should also maintain regular contact with your partner, and solicit their feedback and input on the project.

5 Evaluate and celebrate your project

The final step is to evaluate and celebrate your project. You should use both formative and summative methods to assess the outcomes and impacts of your project for your students, your partner, and your community. You should also collect evidence of your project, such as reports, portfolios, presentations, or testimonials. You should also acknowledge and appreciate the contributions and achievements of your students and your partner, and celebrate the success and learning of your project. You should also identify the strengths and weaknesses of your project, and draw lessons and recommendations for future improvement.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?