Academic Service-Learning at UNL

Click here for faculty and student testimonials.

Course Integration Examples:

Construction Management Classes and the Christ Temple Mission Church Renovation
CNST 405: Mechanical Electrical Estimating Prof. Tim Wentz
CNST 490: Senior Construction Project Dr. Charles Berryman

Prof. Tim Wentz and Prof. Charles Berryman and their classes joined forces to repair and renovate the 93-year-old Christ Temple Mission Church. The church needed structural repair and renovation for the spiritual home of a minority population with little funding to save their structure. The estimating class evaluated the design in small groups and formally presented cost estimates to the congregation. The construction students presented alternatives, related costs to preserving the structural foundation, and surveyed the property, including topographical site maps and site draining.

“It’s a wonderful tool to maximize learning, and a classic win/win situation. The students learned more than they could have in the classroom and the community benefited from the students’ efforts. Actually, the unexpected events allowed for even more learning because we worked together to create solutions.”

+ Tim Wentz: Associate Professor and Interim Department Chair: Construction 405: Mechanical and Electrical Estimating

“This type of service project focused students not only on the needs of the community but also on their ability to serve the community with their college-gained management skills.”

+ Dr. Charles Berryman: Associate Professor: Construction 490: Senior Construction Project

Chemistry class visits local Middles Schools to explain “What’s This Stuff?”
CHEM 113/114: Fundamental Chemistry I/II Dr. Charles McLaughlin

Dr. Charles McLaughlin encouraged 25 students to participate in the “What’s This Stuff?” project to provide outreach to area middle school students about the excitement of chemistry. UNL students wrote an informational paper about an interesting molecule of their choice. Each student described a molecule, its shape and properties, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the molecule to humans. During the next semester, the students developed a display for their paper to be used and posted in the middle schools.

“I received many complimentary comments from faculty in the chemistry department on the quality of the displays and the intent of the outreach. In follow up conversations with the Chemistry 114 students I found them to be very pleased about sharing their academic accomplishments with younger students. Several mentioned their own memories of middle school and what an impression it made when older students visited their own schools. college students were able to see themselves as emerging adults with responsibilities to help set a positive example to younger members of society.”

+ Dr. Charles McLaughlin: Senior Lecturer: Chemistry 113/114: Fundamental Chemistry I/II

For a personal consultation about applying service-learning in your courses, contact the Student Involvement Service-Learning & Volunteer Services Team at 472-2454.