Win-Win-Win Through Community-Engaged Learning from Multiple Stakeholders’ Perspectives

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:45 pm - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Experiential Education and Community Engagement: Scholarship and Practice SIG Roundtable 2

Abstract

This study explores the outcomes and challenges of Community-Engaged Learning (CEL) from the perspectives of students, instructors, and community partners. Drawing on experiential learning theories, a redesigned undergraduate course integrated CEL to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice. Findings reveal CEL’s “win-win-win” potential: students applied theoretical knowledge, developed professional competencies, and formed career identities; community partners benefited from fresh insights and collaboration; and institutions advanced their educational mission. However, challenges included misaligned expectations, limited accessibility, and uneven collaboration. The study highlights the importance of intentional design, reflection, and partnership in optimizing CEL outcomes and sustainability, providing strategic guidance for higher education institutions seeking relevance and societal impact.

Authors

• DaeSeok Chai, Texas A&M University

• Simon Shin, Texas A&M University

• Tania Hasan, Texas A&M University