Center for Service Learning and Community-Based Research
Environmental Science
Students in Dr. Mahsa Kazempour's BI SC 03 participate in the Environmental Awareness and Community Action Project which involves researching an environmental issue of their choice (local, national, or global) and then taking action to support community actions to address that issue by protecting the environment or educating the public. In Spring 2012, students were involved in a variety of projects with the Berks County Parks Department, Monocacy Hill Conservation Association, Nolde Environmental Education Center, Hawk Mountain, and the Audobon Society. They removed invasive species and planted native species; created rain gardens; developed signage, brochures, and education materials; and cleaned up rivers and trails. Students who enroll in BI SCI 03 will complete similar service learning projects.
Introductory Macroeconomic Analysis and Policy
Students in Dr. Jui-Chi Huang's Econ 104H completed a service learning project with Friend, Inc. Community Service or the Greater Berks Food Bank to enhance their studies of U.S. poverty from an economic perspective. Friend, Inc. provides a food pantry, case management, budget counseling parenting support groups, and financial crisis interventions. Greater Berks Food Bank collects, stores, and distributes food to more than 270 charitable agencies, including Friend, Inc. Students provided 15 hours of service to one of these organizations to further their understandings of poverty from an economic perspectives as well as reflect on their experiences as they relate to their understandings. Students who enroll in ECON 104H in Spring 2014 will complete similar service learning projects.
For more information, e-mail Dr. Laurie Grobman (leg8@psu.edu) or call 610-396-6141.