The goal of Citizen Scholars has always been to serve students in a way that is beneficial to their own journey. We want all students to feel supported and like they are on a path that they want to be on to make a difference in the world. We are in the process of shifting the program to better serve this process. On Tuesday, January 20, students were able to receive more information about the reformatted program.
First, let’s begin with what is no longer a requirement for students. All incoming students now will not use the Digication system to show their progress in the program. Also, students will only take one Citizen Scholars course, AL 491. This course is intended to introduce students to the CS program, its core values and requirements. The course will connect students to CS faculty, as well as, peer mentors in an effort to build community and a sustained support system. The course will also explore our role as global citizens seeking to create change. Finally, the program will not operate under the three phases: exploration, immersion, and implementation. Members who were brought into the program under the original format can still operate under the original plan if they choose, or convert to the new one.
In place of these is a broader focus on the project that has been the end goal of every Citizen Scholar that is currently in or has passed through the program. They will begin to develop ideas for this project in the AL 491 class. Once they have an idea, they will assemble a committee of one peer cohort member, possibly a member of the organization they work with, and a faculty member in their major. This committee will be their sounding board and support them on their journey to achieve their goal.
When they are ready, students will be able to begin their project. The project should be something that is sustainable after they graduate or a one time project with a bigger impact. Students may utilize their CS financial support to achieve this goal that was promised to them to achieve this goal if they wish or save it for another experiential learning opportunity. They will document this progress on our new digital platform, Via. After their project is complete, they will present it to the rest of the program.
We are so excited to be adapting the program to support Citizen Scholars in new ways, and help them support communities they care about. Stay tuned as we continue to provide more detailed information.
