Meaningful Assignments in Remote Service-Learning for English Language Learners
Service-learning is being offered on more and more college campuses across the country. However, some students may not be able to participate in face-to-face service for a multitude of reasons. Remote service-learning projects can provide meaningful assistance to community individuals and organization, as well as purposeful language and civic learning experiences for English Language Learners. Service-learning also looks great on a resume! Read below for some service-learning project ideas that are ideal for English Language Learners!
Let's get ELATED about Remote Service-Learning!
Speaking-focused Remote Service Learning Options
What better way to perform service than by sharing culture? Remote meeting platforms provide endless opportunities to connect with people from your community or all over the world.
Table-Wisdom connects English-fluent mentors with English learners. It provides both mentors and students with rich opportunities for language and cultural exchange. Both mentors and students can earn service credit for their contributions to the discussion.
Students who are interested in elder care may be particularly interested in geriatric check-up calls. While such calls improve students' communication, empathy, and teamwork skills, they more importantly provide a "lifeline" to elders who may be isolated due to poor health or limited mobility.
Reading and Writing-focused Remote Service Learning Options
Often in traditional writing classes, students' writing is only read by their teachers, peers, and themselves. Writing for service learning opens students' experiences and knowledge to the world outside classroom walls. Following are several digital writing options that will allow students to not only improve their writing skills but also provide a service for a community organization, showcase an important local cause, share various cultures, or even just brighten someone's day.
Technical writing projects and remote book exchanges are examples of remote service-learning projects undertaken by Laken Brook's students, as described in his article, Reimagining Service Learning in the Digital Age.
Public writing, such as letters to the editors,
Translating is a challenging yet fun way for students to practice their language skills. Projects can include translations of information on the web pages of ESL programs, refugee organizations, local non-profits and restaurants, and so many more. Organizations that the students translate for will be thrilled to have their information reach a wider audience through their multi-language web pages.
A Google search with the key words "remote service-learning projects" will also bring up many creative and fun ideas that you can tailor for your own student population.