![EX[L] Center For Community Engaged Learning](/application/themes/uakron-2/images/stacked-ua.svg)
EX[L] Faculty Initiatives
Grants for Community-Engaged Courses (CECs)
The EXL Center at UA is pleased to be able to offer small grants (up to $1000 each) to support UA courses that incorporate community engagement through community-based research and/or service-learning.
For an instructor to receive funding, the course must include all enrolled students in some form of engagement with local or regional community partners (Akron and Northeast Ohio).
Grant guidelines and application
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis each semester until funds are depleted. Please allow 2-3 weeks for processing and evaluation.
Past Community-Engaged Courses
Principles of Social Media
In Dr. Amber Ferris' class students learned and applied Principles of Social Media by working with and fundraising for the Central American Medical Outreach (CAMO) non-profit organization in Orrville, OH.
The course focused on social media events, social media boosting/ advertising, and the challenges of turning social media engagement into real life engagement.
Students successfully planned a fundraising event and created a media campaign for the organization.
Legal Aspects of Corrections
Dr. Pat Millhoff’s Legal Aspects of Corrections class involved engagement with incarcerated women and their teenaged children at Northeast Ohio Reintegration Center.
While focusing on their curricular content, the students found the lived experiences of the women and their children contextualized their course material revealing the complexities and ambiguities.
After an event at the Center in which students met with women and children, four women came from the prison to campus to talk further with the class.
Foundations of Museums & Archives
Dr. Jodi Kearns’ students in Foundations of Museums & Archives I, processed two archival collections from beginning to end, from opening unprocessed boxes and original sorting to creating series and writing the finding aid. This course used CEC funding for the archival supplies.
An important product of this semester-long work is that the Bernard Saper papers and the Sidney Bijou papers are now open and available to researchers onsite at the Cummings Center for the History of Psychology.
Below are links to the students’ work and these two newly-available collections.
Learning Communities
To join a Learning Community, talk with your academic advisor during your New Roo Advising appointment. For select communities, you can reserve your spot prior to meeting with your advisor by completing the LC interest form below.
Learning Community interest form
FAQs
- Learning Communities have limited spots and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
- To be eligible, you must have confirmed your intent to enroll at UA.
- Individual communities may have additional eligibility criteria identified within their descriptions listed below.
- Some communities use specific academic criteria (i.e. placement tests) to place students into certain courses.
- You can reserve your spot for select LCs prior to meeting with your advisor by completing the LC interest form above.
Interdisciplinary:
The Adult Focus Learning Community is designed for students 23 years old or older and provides support services for individuals who may assume multiple life roles such as a parent, spouse/partner, employee, caregiver, etc.
Department/College:
- Adult Focus
Community opportunities:
- Connect with our adult learners
- Utilize all of UAs support services and academic resources
Who’s eligible?
- Any student, regardless of age, whose primary life roles and responsibilities exist independent of the University and take precedence over the role of student in times of crisis or stress is considered to be an adult student.
How to apply?
- Complete the survey interest form sent to you from New Student Orientation.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
The Akron Rises Learning Community provides new students the opportunity to get connected with faculty, staff and fellow students early on in their Akron Experience. The community is designed to provide support for Akron Rises students and assist in getting them connected to The University of Akron community. Students may have the opportunity (based on testing and course availability) to enroll in a Basic Math or Basic Writing course with their peers from Akron Experience.
Department/College:
- Exploratory Advising & Academic Support
Community opportunities:
- Connection to a Peer Mentor from the Office of Multicultural Development
- Social events and networking opportunities
- First-Year Seminar taught by your Retention Coordinator
Who’s eligible / How to apply?
- Students who are admitted through the Akron Rises Program.
Possible courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Basic Math (4 load hours)
- Basic Writing (4 load hours)
- Intro to Public Speaking (3 credits)
The Office of Academic and Retention Support (OARS) Collegiate Success Learning Community is for students who want an opportunity to participate in a retention-based community and are a member of Choose Ohio First Summer Bridge. Each student is assigned a peer mentor and a professional staff coordinator. The community is focused on helping incoming students develop and grow into scholars by helping them enhance their academic skills and facilitating engagement with the university community.
Department/College:
- Office of Academic and Retention Support (OARS)
Community opportunities:
- Complete an Individual Success Plan with a retention coordinator
- Meet with a peer mentor weekly
- Attend various social and cultural events
- Scheduled academic progress checks to support students’ performance in the classroom
Who’s eligible?
- Students who are selected as participants in the Collegiate Success program. Further information can be found here and you can contact OARS@uakron.edu for further information.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
Courses included (spring semester)
- MUSIC: 201 Exploring Music: Bach to Rock
The Emerging Leaders Program creates an opportunity for first-year students to become actively engaged in the campus community through leadership development, civic engagement and self-discovery. It is through academic achievement, mentoring and co-curricular involvement that students experience a holistic approach to college life and later as civic leaders in society.
Department/College:
- Department of Residence Life and Housing
Community opportunities:
- Make new friends in a unique Learning Community
- Award-winning leadership training
- Membership in America's No. 1 program board (RHPB)
- Work with great entertainers
- Arrive to school early
- Be a part of UA from the start
Who’s eligible?
- Students of any major can apply. Students are selected through an application process by the Department of Residence Life and Housing. As a part of the community experience, students are required to reside on campus in the designated residence hall spaces reserved for the Emerging Leaders Program.
How to apply?
- For more information and details on how to apply, please click here to visit housing’s website.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
Courses included (spring semester)
- Leadership Principles & Instruction (2 credits)
EXPLORE your career and major options! In our EXPLORE Learning Communities you will have the opportunity to learn about yourself, your interests, skills, and values and how they impact your career. You will also connect with current students to learn about campus resources and fun things to do at UA!
Department/College:
- Exploratory Advising and Academic Support
Community opportunities:
- Explore majors and career pathways
- Learn about career readiness and college success
- Connect with student peer mentors
- Timely transition into degree-granting college
Who’s eligible?
- Students exploring and deciding between 2 or more majors.
How to apply?
- Exploratory students will be placed into one of three EXPLORE Learning Community experiences by their academic advisor during their assigned New Roo Advising appointment.
Courses included (fall semester)
EXPLORE #1
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
EXPLORE #2
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Introduction to Public Speaking (3 credits)
EXPLORE #3
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Introduction to Ethics (3 credits)
Step into the FreshStart Learning Community, a specialized initiative by the Office of Multicultural Development tailored for all college freshmen, with a particular focus on those who didn't achieve the high school GPA they aspired to. Crafted to build a robust foundation for academic success, FreshStart embraces a holistic approach to student development. Through mentorship, collaborative learning, and a commitment to personal growth, FreshStart aims to empower students for a successful transition into their college journey. Join us at FreshStart, where we create a path for a vibrant, culturally rich, and thriving academic experience anchored in a commitment to inclusive excellence through a variety of perspectives.
Department/College:
- Office of Multicultural Development
Community Opportunities:
- Cultivate lasting connections with campus leaders, faculty, staff, and mentors across The University of Akron and the broader Akron community
- Receive personalized support from the Office of Multicultural Development to enrich your academic and personal journey
- Contribute to the community through a service-learning project, making a positive impact in the greater Akron area
- Boost academic success with participation in the Study Table program, providing valuable resources for your educational journey
- Receive a book scholarship each semester you engage with FreshStart, easing the financial aspects of your college experience
Who’s eligible?
- FreshStart invites students with any high school GPA, emphasizing a commitment to a solid beginning in college. Applicants must demonstrate a serious dedication to their FreshStart journey. Open to individuals from all majors.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Academic Support (weekly)
Courses included (spring semester)
- Academic Support (weekly)
The I PROMISE Zips Learning Community provides new students the opportunity to get connected with faculty, staff, and fellow peers early on in their Akron Experience. The community is designed to provide wrap around support for I PROMISE students and assist in getting students connected to The University of Akron community. In the spring, the focus shifts to building a legacy at UA and in the community.
Department/College:
- Exploratory Advising and Academic Support
Community opportunities:
- Connection to a Peer Mentor from the Office of Multicultural Development
- Participate in civic engagement opportunities designed to cultivate young emerging leaders
- Built in study table support
- Social events and networking opportunities
Who’s eligible?
- Students who are I PROMISE scholarship recipients from the I PROMISE School.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Intro to Public Speaking (3 credits)
- Academic Support (Weekly)
- Regular I PROMISE Zips Network Socials
Courses included (spring semester)
- Special Topic: Building Your Legacy through Career and Leadership (2 credits)
- Academic Support (Weekly)
- Regular I PROMISE Zips Network Socials
Explore your career and major options! In our Learning Community you will have the opportunity to learn about yourself, your interests, skills, and values and how they impact your career. You will also connect with current students to learn about campus resources and fun things to do at UA!
Department/College:
- Military Services Center, Office of Student Affairs
Community opportunities:
- Practice hands on in class articulating military experience to civilian life with Ohio Means Jobs military experts – complete resumes and attend Veterans Career Fair.
- Practice teamwork and communication skills, and develop reflective habits through group projects. This provides a comfort zone for you to ease in to university life and assimilate with traditional students.
- One-on-one interactions during class time with representatives from the Department of Veterans Affairs and Veterans Service Commission to help you attain all the resources you have earned.
- Help during class time with the Military Services Center to make sure each term your GI Bill, Guard Scholarship and other benefits are processed timely.
Who’s eligible?
- Anyone who has served or is serving in the military and their dependents – Ohio National Guard, Reservists, Active Duty, Prior Active Duty, Post 9/11, Vocational Rehabilitation Recipients, Dependents of current military service members, MIA, KIA or disabled.
How to apply?
- Complete the survey interest form sent to you from New Student Orientation.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
This community is perfect for first-year college students who are passionate about Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) and are recipients of the Choose Ohio First Scholarship. It provides a lively environment where you can connect with like-minded peers, collaborate, explore, and grow together in your STEM interests. You'll have access to opportunities for personal and professional development. From mentorship programs with experienced STEM professionals to internships and career pathways, the program provides you with the necessary tools and resources for collegiate success.
Department/College:
- Office of Academic and Retention Support (OARS)
Community opportunities:
- Complete an Individual Success Plan with a retention coordinator
- Meet with a peer mentor weekly
- Attend various social and cultural events
- Scheduled academic progress checks to support students’ performance in the classroom
- For students residing on campus, students will live together in the OARS Living-Learning Community
Who’s eligible?
- Students who are selected as participants in the Choose Ohio First program. Further information can be found here and you can contact OARS@uakron.edu for further information.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
The PASSAGE Learning Community is crafted to be an inviting space where individuals from all backgrounds unite in a spirit of fellowship, forming a close and supportive network. Emphasizing a fusion of varied perspectives and experiences, this learning community is dedicated to creating an environment that welcomes participants from all walks of life. It encourages a deep sense of connection and camaraderie rooted in diversity of thought. Following the principles of PASSAGE (Promoting Awareness, Social Sensitivity, and Genuine Empathy), the community is committed to shared experiences, collaborative learning, and mutual support. It aims to blend individuals with a variety of viewpoints into a cohesive fellowship, fostering a rich learning environment that appreciates the uniqueness of each participant while embracing inclusive excellence.
Department/College:
- Office of Multicultural Development
Community opportunities:
- Cultivate lasting connections with campus leaders, faculty, staff, and mentors across The University of Akron and the broader Akron community
- Receive personalized support from the Office of Multicultural Development to enrich your academic and personal journey
- Contribute to the community through a service-learning project, making a positive impact in the greater Akron area
- Boost academic success with participation in the Study Table program, providing valuable resources for your educational journey
- Receive a book scholarship each semester you engage with PASSAGE, easing the financial aspects of your college experience
Who’s eligible?
- PASSAGE invites students with a cumulative high school GPA of 2.50 or higher, offering an opportunity for those seeking a strong start in college. Open to individuals from all majors.
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC interest form .
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Spots are limited and are filled on a first come, first served basis.
Courses included (fall semester)
- Adaptive First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
- Academic Support (weekly)
Courses included (spring semester)
- Leadership course
- Academic Support (weekly)
The REALity Learning Community combines pop culture influences to current leadership and engagement practices. This learning community is for the film buffs and binge watchers who want to explore and connect what they watch to their new start at the University of Akron.
Department/College:
- Department of Student Life
Community opportunities:
- Strategize academic and personal success
- Engage in the on and off campus community
- Connect with campus resources
- Cultivate leadership and your professional profile
Who’s eligible?
- Students of any major, any residential status (commuter or campus housing), genuinely interested in interacting with campus and community as well as establishing lifelong learning/leadership tools
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC Interest Form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar (2 credits)
Join the Transfer Experience Learning Community and connect with your fellow UA transfer students on all that UA has to offer. Learn more about student resources, and activities that you can participate in along with events specially designed for transfer students.
Department/College:
- Transfer Services Center
Community opportunities:
- National Transfer Student Week Events and Programming.
- Opportunities to thrive in and out of the classroom in a learning environment that becomes home.
Who’s eligible?
- New Transfer Students enrolling at UA
How to apply?
- Apply through the LC Interest Form.
- Express an interest at your assigned New Roo Advising appointment with your academic advisor.
Courses included (fall semester)
- First-Year Seminar with an embedded transfer student experience (2 credits)