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Program Evaluation of an International University-Sponsored Service-Learning Experience

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Conference

2024 South East Section Meeting

Location

Marietta, Georgia

Publication Date

March 10, 2024

Start Date

March 10, 2024

End Date

March 12, 2024

Tagged Topic

Diversity

Page Count

22

DOI

10.18260/1-2--45553

Permanent URL

https://strategy.asee.org/45553

Download Count

11

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Paper Authors

biography

Sarah K. Bauer Mercer University

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Dr. Sarah Bauer (Ph.D., University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA) is an Assistant Professor of Environmental and Civil Engineering at Mercer University, Macon, GA. Her primary research interests are water and wastewater treatment, waste management, pollution prevention, and renewable energy technologies. Her research work focuses on developing sustainable techniques for the production of clean energy and clean water, with specific interest in the FEW Nexus. Her research work has been funded by the Armand Corporation, the Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA), the Engineering Information Foundation (EiF), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the National Science Foundation. She has also worked on projects to develop sustainability-related hands-on engineering activities for K-12 students through the Society of Women Engineers: Engineers in Training (SWEET) summer outreach program she developed in 2021. She currently serves as the co-Faculty Advisor for Mercer University’s student chapter of SWE.

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biography

Adaline M. Buerck Mercer University

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Dr. Adaline Buerck is an Assistant Professor of Environmental Engineering in the Department of Environmental and Civil Engineering and the Director of The Cecil Day Family Center for International Groundwater Innovation. Dr. Buerck joined Mercer University in Fall 2022. Before joining Mercer, Dr. Buerck was at the University of South Florida where she completed her Ph.D. in Civil Engineering and a Graduate Certificate in Social Marketing and Social Change.

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Hannah Nabi

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Bremen Vance Mercer University

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Abstract

Service-learning is a high-impact practice that fosters civic responsibility by providing opportunities to connect student learning in the classroom with real-world experiences in the community. Studying abroad provides students with opportunities to learn how to navigate different cultures, work with diverse peers, and gain new perspectives and global awareness. The Mercer on Mission (MOM) program at Mercer University in Macon, GA bridges service-learning with short-term, faculty-led study abroad opportunities to provide transformative experiences for students through academic instruction, cultural immersion, applied research, meaningful service, and personal reflection. In this study, the MOM program was evaluated for its impact on student participants. Program evaluation included a holistic assessment of the program. Research goals included evaluation of effectiveness in program preparedness, global competency, and knowledge transfer. A series of survey questions were developed to evaluate the research goals. Pre- and post-program surveys were administered anonymously to student participants. Both quantitative and qualitative survey data were analyzed to determine the program strengths and weaknesses. Findings show the value of pre-program preparation, faculty support, and building relationships with community partners. The results of this study provide holistic data that will help improve students’ experiences and the overall MOM program.

Bauer, S. K., & Buerck, A. M., & Nabi, H., & Vance, B. (2024, March), Program Evaluation of an International University-Sponsored Service-Learning Experience Paper presented at 2024 South East Section Meeting, Marietta, Georgia. 10.18260/1-2--45553

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