Service learning gets notice in Timetable

For the first time, service-learning classes have been specially noted in the university Timetable.

Footnotes in the Spring 2001-2002 Timetable pages should help increase visibility of service-learning classes, says Carol Gosenheimer, timetable program manager in the Office of the Registrar. A short definition of the program, along with a definition of writing-intensive courses, is also new in the beginning of the coursebook.

Coordinated through the Morgridge Center for Public Service, service learning is a teaching method, which integrates community service and community-based research into academic course work. In the context of the Wisconsin Idea, the boundaries of the classroom are extended into local, national and international communities.

Although service-learning footnotes have sporadically appeared in past editions, Morgridge Center director Mary Rouse says the Spring 2001-2002 edition is the first coordinated effort to list the classes. At least 64 have been noted and Rouse says she hopes the attention will help draw a higher enrollment.

“Based on the comments we’ve had from students, many have had service- learning classes in high school and they’re also looking for them here,” she says.

For more information about service learning classes, email Rouse, mkrouse@facstaff.wisc.edu, or Morgridge Center assistant director Randy Wallar, jrwallar@facstaff.wisc.edu.

For registration information, visit the registrar’s Web site or call 262-3811.