Engaged Learning

Colorful LA mural featuring Dolores Huerta

The Engaged Learning flag is transitioning to an Experiential Learning for Mission designation requirement. Courses with the Experiential Learning for Mission designation (ELM) offer immersive or community-based learning opportunities that integrate academic knowledge, application of that knowledge, and the values of LMU’s mission. Students apply their knowledge to a question or challenge in connection with local and/or global communities, working collaboratively toward the collective good. You can find more information about the Experiential Learning for Mission and how to designate a course, on the Core Curriculum webpage: Core Curriculum - Loyola Marymount University (lmu.edu).

BCLA is here to support your EL/ELM course development and implementation:

  • Faculty teaching EL/ELM-designated courses can apply for a mini-grant for up to $1500 to support the implementation of this work.
  • We provide individual support for planning EL/ELM courses 
  • We provide training seminars that include course design, assessment, and practical considerations
  • Information about working with local community partners
  • Developing and maintaining relationships with community-based and public organizations
  • Applying for external funding to support your engaged pedagogy and scholarship.

For any questions related to Engaged Learning in BCLA, contact: 

Deanna Y. Cooke, Ph.D.
Director of Engaged Learning, BCLA
Deanna.Cooke@lmu.edu

Apply for an Engaged Learning Grant 

  • Engaged Learning consists of classes that could include the following types of experiences:

    Community-based learning

    • A Jewish Studies course creates informational placards in collaboration with the Museum of Tolerance
    • Students work with a community organizing group to archive their 20 year history
    • An African American studies course works with local high school students to teach what they are learning about Black history
    • Elder Law students volunteer with senior citizens with differing mental and physical capabilities, to see how the law is applied differentially 

    Faculty-mentored research

    • A social research course conducting interviews with women exiting prison in collaboration with civil rights advocates

    Field experience

    • Business students work with small businesses to provide a business plan
    • Communications students work with a local non-profit to provide a communications plan

    Internship or practicum

    • Students in a course on Greek history review Films for the LA Greek Film Festival
    • Political Science students take an internship course and work with local politicians

    Study Abroad

    • BCLA Global Immersion Trip to the Ukraine to experience and learn about Eastern Christian Traditions
    • African American Studies course studying Afro-Caribbean identities and traveling to Cuba to learn firsthand.