Service-learning is an educational philosophy and pedagogical method of experiential learning that embraces ethical and socially responsible participation in structured learning activities. The Service-Learning Grant (SLG) at UTSA funds the development of new courses or the redesign of existing courses that incorporate the principles and pedagogy of service-learning. Funding for the SLG comes from the Teaching and Learning Center (TLC). This form will allow you to fill out the required information and submit your grant proposal online.

Program Objectives
The Service-Learning Grant provides funding from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Successful applicants will focus on course development that strengthens community learning or civic education; that integrates democracy, diversity and social justice as complementary educational objectives; or, that prepares students for entering diverse communities with people who are different from themselves. We encourage development of courses to engage students in service experiences with a community partner by addressing a community-defined need; to participate in collaborative research and/or teaching projects that involve community partners; or to generate participation in co-curricular activities. As with all service-learning initiatives, student reflection is a key component.

Timeline for 2008-2009 SLG proposals:

Eligibility
All faculty, including non-tenure-track and adjunct faculty, and graduate students who serve as teaching assistants are eligible to apply for a SLG.

Fill out the online form below to submit your grant proposal. Be concise but include as much information as necessary. At the end of the form you may submit your proposal or clear values and start again.

Personal Information Last Name:* First Name:* Department:* Email Address:* xxxx@xxxx.xxx Campus Phone:* xxx-xxx-xxxx Alternate Phone:* xxx-xxx-xxxx Address:* Status:* Select One... Undergraduate Student Graduate Student Non-Tenure Track Faculty Tenured/Tenure Track Faculty Faculty Administrator Staff Visitor Other Line 1*     Line 2     City*     State*     ZIP Code*     Grant Information Title * Description of the course and community to be addressed* (include course number) Need or problem statement* Goal(s) of the course or course project* Service activities* Reflective assignments* Assessment/Evaluation Plan* Budget, with budget explanation* The budget must include an itemized list of all expenses as well as the time period for which the funds will be used. Any amount up to $5,000.00 is acceptable. Projects must be completed by the end of the fiscal year. Funding must be spent by August 31 of the fiscal year in which the funding begins. Agreement to present your findings at a Poster Presentation scheduled for September 21, 2009. * Select One... I Agree I Do Not Agree * REMEMBER, YOUR PROPOSAL WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED UNLESS YOU AGREE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE POSTER PRESENTATION SLG Proposals are evaluated on the following criteria: Be sure to include enough information in the above form for the committee to adequately evaluate your grant proposal. Merit Rating (1-3) Service experiences are integrated with the learning objectives of course content Structured service activities are designed to meet community needs Reflective opportunities exist for students to make meaning of this experience Promotion of service and learning are equal goals marked by reciprocity between the student(s) and the community organization being served There is a significant impact on the community.   Evaluation Rating (1-3) How well will the following variables be measured: Quality of the students civic and multicultural learning outcomes Quality and scope of student and community impact Potential impact on the University and its curriculum Potential for sustaining community partnerships   Budget Rating (1-3) Clarity (how funds will be used and breakdown of expenditures) Appropriateness (funds will be used in accordance with project guidelines) Matching funds (presence and significance of matching funds) Reasonableness (likelihood the budget will support a successful project) Impact (number of students impacted over time)   *Rating Scale: 1 = Weak, 2 = Moderate, 3 = Strong The Service Learning Grant does not fund: Technological equipment such as computers or personal response systems (clickers) Faculty salaries of any kind Consumable supplies, such as paper Photocopying expenses Conference fees Travel fees, unless benefiting students The proposals will be reviewed by, and funding decisions made by, the Service-Learning Grant Committee. This committee includes faculty members from most colleges and representatives from the Teaching and Learning Center. Send any additional document you deem necessary via email to: terri.kadala@utsa.edu Additional documents attached should address the evaluation criteria for the grant proposal.

Questions should be directed to Barbara Millis (barbara.millis@utsa.edu) or (210) 458-7374) or Terri Kadala (terri.kadala@utsa.edu) or (210) 458-7504.

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