Community Engaged Learning is a signature program of The College of New Jersey chosen by the Strategic Planning task force on Excellence and Signature Programs. As a signature program, it contributes in a positive way to learning beyond the formal classroom experience.
Community Engaged Learning (CEL) is a teaching strategy that strives to cultivate the common ground that exists between the learning objectives of a course and the unmet needs of the community. These class-based projects or experiences that are not only educational for the students but also help improve the quality of life for others in our region.
TCNJ believes that educated and enlightened individuals must participate in a series of experiences that promote their scholarly growth, broaden their knowledge of all sectors of human inquiry, and emphasizes civic responsibility; these are the three pillars of general education. As part of their College Core education, TCNJ students “should understand how to accept responsibility for active and engaged citizenship in a complex and diverse society.” Getting involved is embedded throughout the curriculum.
All First Year students, regardless of their track, are enrolled in a non-credit course (IDS 103/First Year Community Engaged Learning) that appears on their transcripts. They receive a passing grade from the Bonner Institute for completing all of the requirements, which includes filling out pre- and post-surveys.
To manage student participation, all First Year students are also entered into their own individual Canvas community; one for each FSP CEL project or co-curricular CEL Day. This allows Bonner Institute staff and student leaders to communicate directly with the students and faculty and post important items, such as assessment tools.