The Institute for Service-Learning was developed to assist faculty, at any stage of involvement or acquaintance with service-learning, to use this instructional method in their classes. The Institute offers training and individual assistance with service-learning curriculum development, and also helps to link faculty and their classes to appropriate community service sites.
 
What is Service-Learning?
Service-learning combines service to the community with student learning in a way that improves both the student and the community. According to the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993:
Service-learning:

• is a method whereby students learn and develop through active participation in thoughtfully organized service that is conducted in and meets the needs of communities
• is coordinated with an elementary school, secondary school, institution of higher education, or community service program and the community
• helps foster civic responsibility
• is integrated into and enhances the academic curriculum of the students, or the education components of the community
• helps foster civic responsibility
• is integrated into and enhances the academic curriculum of the students, or the education components of the community service program in which the participants are enrolled
• and provides structured time for students or participants to reflect on the service experience.
   

Why use Service-Learning?
A national study of Learn and Serve America programs suggest that effective service-learning programs improve academic grades, increase attendance and participation in class, and develop personal development, or both, students learn critical thinking, communication, teamwork, civic responsibility, mathematical reasoning, problem solving, public speaking, vocational skills, computer skills, scientific method, research skills, and analysis.

In addition, Service-Learning directly addresses the mission of Frostburg State University: (Frostburg State University is)...nationally recognized for its programs in community service and leadership, thus providing "real-life" experiences for students in virtually every discipline offered. As a result, FSU holds the distinction of being one the USM institutions most fully woven into the fabric of the surrounding region. Frostburg State University is distinguished by an excellent, diverse faculty, dedicated staff, and service to the communities of Western Maryland. Students are afforded a supportive environment in which to expand their knowledge, understanding, communication skills, and appreciation for cultural diversity. Couched within a liberal arts tradition, undergraduate programs promote intellectual growth and equip learners with problem-solving and decision-making abilities useful in developing global understanding and effecting civic responsibility and constructive change.

 
Service-Learning Examples at FSU
There are many fine examples of service-learning at FSU. The following are just a few:
Reading Education 323 students serve two hours per week as reading tutors for students in Allegany County kindergartens. FSU students get real life experience with children learning early literacy skills and kindergarten classrooms get extra help.
In MUSC 350, students apply what they learn in the classroom about music instruction by developing and conducting interactive music programs for young children in preschool and kindergarten.
Students in SOWK 370 serve two hours per week at various social service agencies and programs, providing direct volunteer assistance while observing program operation. Past service-learning sites have included the Brandenburg Center, Finan Center, St. Vincent de Paul Nursing Center, Frostburg Village Adult Daycare, READ TO SUCCEED!, Friend’s Aware, Allegany Health Right, and the Girl Scouts.