Community-engaged learning

Community-engaged learning in action
UVic law students Kristy Broadhead (centre) and Adrienne Macmillan (right), under the supervision of Dr. Val Napoleon (Law Foundation Professor of Aboriginal Justice and Governance, left), developed a Secwepmec Law casebook in collaboration with elders, language speakers, business owners teachers and other community members on Secwepmec land in the BC Interior.

What is community-engaged learning?

Community-Engaged Learning (CEL) is a form of experiential learning and community-engaged scholarship whereby students actively engage with course content through the combination of collaborations with community and facilitated reflection. In this approach to learning…

  • community (both on and off campus) is broadly defined and includes community groups, businesses, governmental and non-governmental agencies, industry, etc.;

  • action varies from dialogue to practice to consultation to research; and

  • levels of engagement vary from information sharing to involvement in community-led initiatives to co-creation of collaborative learning endeavours.

Through CEL, students can apply academic knowledge to real world issues, a process that can benefit both students and the community.

Community-engaged learning takes many forms at UVic. Practicum placements, internships, co-operative education, service learning programs, study abroad and applied research projects are just a few examples of how CEL is integrated at UVic. The CEL Office (in the Division of Learning Support and Innovation) is here to support these endeavours. Contact celc1@uvic.ca for more information. 

Participate in community-engaged learning

Community, faculty and staff and students are all vital to building a thriving community-engaged learning environment. Explore some of the ways you can get involved and contribute to this vibrant learning community.