In Service-Learning ‘we are all professors and apprentices’: Robert Bringle visits Católica for two transformative weeks
'In Service-Learning (ApS), service is a means to an end and that end is learning,' stressed Robert Bringle, a professor at Indiana University and an international expert in the ApS methodology, who visited the Universidade Católica from 29 May to 12 June for a fortnight dedicated to training and meetings with the Rector's Office, professors, students and partner institutions.
On 2 and 3 June, Robert Bringle was the speaker at the Transform4Europe Alliance's 3rd Service-Learning Workshop, on the topics: ‘Service-Learning and Civic Engagement’ and ‘Service-Learning: Pedagogical Aspects and Curriculum Design’.
The event focused on distinguishing the Service-Learning methodology from other similar situations, but which are ‘Community-based instruction’, as well as the pedagogical aspects of ApS and the curriculum design components of the projects.
In the workshops, Robert Bringle also emphasised: "in Service-Learning activities, we serve with the community and not the community or for the community. We are all professors and apprentices."
This was a unique opportunity for Católica faculty members, who have been implementing this methodology, to present their projects and receive expert feedback on how to improve their curricular units.
The two weeks concluded with a meeting between the President of Católica, Isabel Capeloa Gil, the Vice-Rector José Manuel Pereira de Almeida and Robert Bringle, together with the team coordinating CApS - Católica Service-Learning: Innovation and Social Responsibility.
At the meeting, the expert highlighted the unique way in which the Universidade Católica has been institutionalising the methodology on its four Campi, standing out in Europe as an example in this process.
In 2024, Católica's Service Learning project ‘Ser Cuida(I)doso’ won the Uniservitate Prize, which aims to recognise the best Service Learning initiatives in Catholic Higher Education.
The visit took place as part of the Fulbright Specialist Programme and the T4EU alliance.