Service-Learning with Native American Communities

Authors

Valerian Three Irons, Diversity and Service Learning Associate, Graduate Student in Rural Sociology, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD

Date of this Version

November 2003

Abstract

The International Partnership for Service-Learning along with South Dakota State University engages North and South Dakota Native American Communities with service learning. College students from the United States as well as foreign countries participate in 2-13 week sessions in service learning. Students have a two week orientation session on Native American Culture. Students meet with SDSU Faculty as well as Native American Cultural Presenters. Orientation concludes with a one week academic field trip visiting historical sites and SD Reservations. Students then spend up to 10 weeks living and serving in Native American communities. Students may earn up to 15 credits from SDSU in Anthropology, Sociology, English, and Geography.