Community-based Learning
Two-Year Instruction through Community-based Learning
This two-year program blends three modes of instruction to maximize learning in community:
- Online Coursework and Interaction with Global Peers and Faculty
- On-site Residentials, one-month each term
- Ongoing Applied Practicum Work within community
Interactive Online Coursework
Faculty with extensive field experience facilitate student learning and peer-to-peer exchange through internet-based coursework. Each term, prior to the one-month residential period of instruction, students are required to participate in real-time, online discussions and complete online assignments. The students must be prompt in completing this online work to participate in the residential period of instruction.
Residential-Based Studies
For one-month each term, students gather face-to-face with faculty and peers for a field-based residential. Throughout the residential, students visit and learn from other communities, participate in classroom sessions and working groups, and work one-on-one with faculty.
Community Practicum
The community of each student is the primary place of learning. Students are expected to maintain their community-based work throughout the two-year program. Across all four terms, they apply their coursework, questions, and research prospectus in the context of their ongoing community work.
