This week, the Academic Innovation Hub at Bethlehem University held a session on service-learning (SL), led by Mr. Elias Hazin, Faculty Specialist in Community Engagement & Service Learning. The session welcomed newly appointed faculty members while also providing returning faculty with a meaningful refresher on this transformative pedagogical approach.
Throughout the presentation, participants explored the core principles and definition of service-learning, gaining a clear understanding of how SL integrates academic instruction with meaningful community engagement. Mr. Hazin highlighted the essential components of successful SL courses and shared insights from his own experience facilitating service-learning across different disciplines at Bethlehem University.
The session concluded with practical strategies to support faculty members planning to incorporate service-learning in their courses next semester. These approaches not only enrich classroom learning but also help students build real-world skills, strengthen civic responsibility, and develop a deeper connection to their communities.
This initiative reflects Bethlehem University’s ongoing mission to promote community-centered education and to prepare students not only academically, but also as compassionate leaders committed to serving Palestinian society.