Service Learning is an educational approach in which a student learns theories in the classroom while at the same time volunteering with an agency (usually a non-profit or social service group), engaging in reflection activities to deepen their understanding of the subject matter being taught.

Service Learning and Community Engagement (SL/CE, pronounced “slice”) has manifested differently in educational institutions internationally since the 20th century. At USC Upstate, we define service learning as teaching and learning that blends service with credit-bearing courses, derives from a need in the community, defined by a community partner, founded on disciplinary content, and incorporating deep reflection. We define community engagement as collaboration with our larger community (local, regional/state, national, global) for the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources to address critical community issues in a context of partnership and reciprocity.

Together, SL/CE at USC Upstate seeks to enrich scholarship, research, and creative activity; enhance curriculum, teaching, and learning; prepare educated, engaged citizens; strengthen democratic values and civic responsibility; address critical societal issues; and contribute to the public good.