FAA 291 ES1 (September Section)
Civic Engagement Seminar
Instructor: Vicki Eddings
Office: 326 Noble Hall
Phone: 217.265.0202
Enrollment in this course requires attendance in two in-class sessions (one orientation, one reflection/discussion) and one two-day outreach activity (either in Champaign or East St. Louis, IL) Credit hours: 1; Grading: Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory.
After registering for this course students will have the opportunity to select an outreach location. Through a portal on the ESLARP website, registered students will have access to an outreach form where they will select their outreach location. I will assign students to their site on a first come first served basis.
The course syllabus will be available on this website closer to class time.
September Section Information
On-campus sessions
Champaign outreach:
Tuesday, September 6, 5:00 – 6:30 pm. Room 317 Noble Hall (Orientation)
Tuesday, September 13, 5:00– 6:30 pm Room 317 Noble Hall (Reflection)
East St. Louis outreach:
Wednesday, September 7, 5:00 – 6:30 pm. Room 317 Noble Hall (Orientation)
Wednesday, September 14, 5:00– 6:30 pm Room 317 Noble Hall (Reflection)
Off-campus session
Champaign outreach
Friday, September 9 (9 am through 7 pm)
Saturday, September 10 (9 am through 5 pm)
East St. Louis outreach
Friday, September 9 (depart 7:00 am)
Saturday, September 10 (return 8:00 pm)
Course description:
Community-based organizations play increasingly important roles in expanding the supply of jobs, affordable housing and social services in many low-income urban communities. Supported by local religious organizations, financial institutions, regional foundations and municipal governments, community development corporations have emerged as the primary organizational vehicles for neighborhood stabilization and community revitalization in many U.S. cities.
This community engagement course is designed to introduce students from across campus to community development practices and the participatory approach followed by the Illinois Action Research (IAR). This is a unique opportunity to work alongside residents and neighborhood leaders on vital projects identified by grassroots organizations. A hands-on approach to instruction is employed, as participants will take part in an Outreach Weekend experience in East St. Louis, Illinois or Champaign, IL. Students will tour the area and meet neighborhood leaders before engaging in the weekend projects of physical improvements in the community.
As preparation for the trip students will participate in an orientation that highlights the history and partnerships with the University, the East St. Louis Action Research Project and Illinois Action Research. Students will be required to complete two readings and submit a written assignment. Students should be prepared to discuss their weekend experiences during the reflection session.
Course Structure:
FAA 291 follows an open discussion format that fosters lively and thoughtful conversation; questions and comments are encouraged. The course meets twice on campus and includes one two-day outreach experience (Friday and Saturday). Your expenses during these two days are paid by Illinois Action Research.