Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an hour requirement for RIA?
Yes - all students must engage in at least 15 hours of off-campus learning.
Does the off-campus learning need to be service?
Definitely not! While service is certainly one way our students can learn, they can also attend community meetings, learn about non-profits, interview community leaders, etc.
Are University staff allowed to teachRIA?
Yes! Similar to Cura Personalis courses/experiences, staff members with a Master's degree (or higher) in any field may lead an RIA experience.
Is there a stipend associated with leading a RIA experience?
No, as RIA experiences (whether as an attribute to a course or a co-curricular experience) are 0-credit, no stipend can be paid to instructors.
What is the artifact that I need to require for my students to complete Reflection in Action?
The last Essential Criteria is actually covered by the Core, in partnership with the instructor. All students participating in Reflection in Action experiences will be administered a common set of reflection prompts that they will answer in writing.
Can I assign my own reflection papers or projects though?
Absolutely! Journals, groups discussion, or reflection papers are all encouraged throughout the Reflection in Action experience as a way to continually engage with your students on what they are learning at their off-campus experience.
I would like to implement an RIA experience into my class or program, but I'm not familiar with off-campus learning options. Where should I look?
The University's Center for Service and Community Engagement is a wonderful resource. They maintain a database of over 500 community partners that your students can engage with.
Does the off-campus learning experience need to be with a non-profit?
Not necessarily - it could be with a company, government agency, or other community organization - but keep in mind that students must reflect on how they "contribute to community life" as well as their "understanding of what it means to act for and with others".