Taking Experiential Learning on the Road: The Benefits of Service Learning Projects

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Session Type: Concurrent Sessions

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Service learning projects provide an opportunity for experiential learning in a variety of contexts that expose students to different practice settings, allow law schools to respond to crises or provide legal services to underserved communities, and broaden opportunities for community engagement. Students who participate in these programs conduct “know your rights” presentations; provide brief services to help clients address immediate discrete legal issues including employment law, consumer law, and family separation planning for people at risk of detention or deportation; represent in Credible Fear Interviews; assist with criminal records expungement; advise public housing tenants on lease renewal questions; provide translation and interpretation assistance; develop self-help materials; and observe and document court proceedings. In addition to providing pro bono services, students meet with local practitioners and in some projects participate in networking events to promote rural practice opportunities. This session will discuss models for service learning projects at several universities, strategies for identifying community partners and funding sources, and tips for success.