Engaged learning involves students applying their knowledge to expand and deepen their skillset by participating in concrete experiences, either inside or outside of the classroom, which require reflection, perspective taking, critical thinking, and active exploration.
Community organizations and corporations can provide students with engaged learning experiences through offering internships, co-ops, volunteer opportunities, and more. The Center for Engaged Learning works in collaboration with the university career centers, Office of Community Engagement, and Office of Student Involvement to advertise community engaged learning experiences to students. If you would like to learn more, contact cel@louisville.edu.
Students who participate in engaged learning experiences gain:
- A better understanding and application of course material
- Insight into skills, interests, passions, and values
- Broader view of the world; appreciation of community and diversity
- Translatable career skills
- Civic engagement
- Self-confidence and leadership skills
What does engaged learning look like in the community?
- Internships and cooperative (co-op) learning
- Community engagement/volunteer experiences
- Community-based learning courses
- Industry and community capstone projects
How can my organization support engaged learning?
Provide students with internships/co-op opportunities
- Connect with the Career Center teams at UofL for the areas you are interested in recruiting students from
- Utilize the UofL Internship Handbook to learn how to create or improve your internship program
- Review the UofL Posting Policy and post internship opportunities on Cardinal Careers
- Participate in career fairs to share about your organization with students
Provide students with community engagement opportunities
- Post an opportunity on the Helper Helper system
- Connect with the Office of Community Engagement