Then apply by March 7, 2016 via studyabroad.illinois.edu for this new LINC service-learning course:

STEM Service-Learning Projects in South Africa

ENG 398: Special Topics Section SSA; 3 credits; CRN: 55573

TR 2:00-3:20 p.m. (2320 DCL)

2nd 8-week course with Summer Study Tour in South Africa

This 2nd 8-week, 3-credit course provides an experiential learning opportunity in the contemporary context of Pretoria, South Africa.  On-campus meetings begin 3/15/16.  Students learn about the context for engagement, including exploration of the history of apartheid, challenges of its legacy of inequalities and poverty, and the role of civic engagement in post-apartheid transformation.  Students will explore theories, concepts, and critiques in global service-learning and engage in critical reflection about citizenship and communities.

The course includes a faculty-led trip to Pretoria, South Africa (tentative dates: 6/22-7/9/16), in which students collaborate with students from the University of Pretoria on community-based projects with schools and nonprofit partners.  Examples of projects include teaching science and mathematics in under-resourced schools, conducting computer training in Mamelodi, and renovation and construction projects to improve habitats in zoological parks.  Students stay with host families during the trip and can expect to enhance their communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and intercultural skills while learning with and from South African community partners, stakeholders, host families, and counterparts at the University. Historical and cultural excursions in and around Pretoria and Johannesburg will be included.

For questions about LINC service-learning courses, contact Valeri Werpetinski (werpetin@illinois.edu).

Thanks to Valeri Werpetinski of Learning in Community for this information item.

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