COOP 345 Co-Op Field Experience II: (subtitle)
The Co-op Field Experience II container course is based on best practices in experiential and participatory learning as it integrates the fieldwork component of the Cooperative Education experience with intentional forms of reflection. The course promotes the growth of students' abilities in developing purposeful forms of social engagement as it leads them into collaboration with co-op partners and mentors. It also requires deliberative action as it leads students to participate in dialogue, develop a sense of inquiry, and engage regularly in the practice of reflection-all fundamental organizing principles of effective field-based learning. Students are expected to reflect on their individualized educational goals; explore action-based methodological approaches within their fields of interest; and to initiate a practice of communicating with colleagues within their disciplines as well as within the diverse communities of practice in which they engage. This course defines reflection as an iterative process of thinking, writing, and engaging in forms of creative expression in order to make meaning out of one's experiences as well as to broaden knowledge of self and others. To this end, students produce a Fieldbook that contains documentation of their field experiences and record reflections on their learning. They are introduced to a variety of dynamic tools for self-expression and led to embrace a medium that enables them to communicate their experience and ideas. The course asks students to make connections between their ongoing work or practice and prior learning, while also encouraging them to develop future goals and identify self-defined pathways toward them. Upon completion of the course, students evaluate their learning based upon their means of expression as well as the goals, action steps, and benchmarks they set for themselves early in the term.
Prerequisite
EXPR 145 or instructor permission.
Corequisite
In order to enroll in any Co-Op course, students must commit to and engage in an approved Co-Op experience on full-time basis (30 to 40 hours per week) for the duration of the academic term.