If you’ve visited the 2022-23 page and would like to work with us on a community engagement project, this page covers the process. Learn more about CE projects here.

Steps

Preparation

  1. Tyson discusses possibilities with project advisors or supervisors
    • Advisors/supervisors set parameters (e.g., time frames, themes)
      • Advisors/supervisors share the concept with learners (e.g., with a 3Levels.org introductory video) and gauge interest
        • Learners and advisors brainstorm/research possible projects on this website and perhaps others

        Planning

        1. Initial meeting (Tyson, learners, advisors) to select a starting point (e.g., topic)
        2. Tyson makes, shares a rough project outline in Drive
          • Finalizing meeting: discussion of any questions or concerns with the outline
            • Tyson makes, shares a final project plan outline in Drive
              • Participants fill in plan details, sign commitment forms for completing it

              …………Show key plan components

              • Academic purpose (e.g., credit restoration, class project, indep. study)
                • Key components: research topics, service action, product(s)
                  • Impact goals (e.g., strengthening a community resource)
                    • Educators and roles (e.g., advising, progress monitoring, or grading)
                      • Any outside groups involved and background check requirements
                        • Type (individual or group) and learner grade level(s)
                          • Time span (2 to 12 weeks) and work locations
                            • Transportation or resource needs
                              • Academic integration (e.g., learning results and credit sought)

                              Completion

                              1. Learners do assignments/activities and report about each in 3Levels forms
                                • Advisors (including a 3Levels rep) give feedback in the Drive guide
                                  • Advisors and learners meet weekly or every other week to discuss the process

                                  Assessment (of process and impacts)

                                  1. Learners and advisors complete forms at the start, midpoint, and conclusion
                                    • Educators grade products using rubrics we can provide or help create

                                    Sharing and extending results

                                    1. Learners make final reports (e.g., in written form) and social media posts
                                      • Participants acknowledge contributions and share ideas for others to add to them

                                      Additional considerations

                                      Tailoring for different situations (e.g., grade levels)

                                      • Participant responsibilities and roles (e.g., in planning)
                                        • Project duration, scope, and research depth
                                          • Quality of presentations, papers, or other products

                                          Expected benefits for participants and communities

                                          Group or EntityBenefit Examples
                                          LearnersIncreased connection to their communities and confidence in contributing
                                          Educators and supervisorsSupporting access to practical applications of academic knowledge and skills
                                          SchoolsEnhanced relationships with surrounding communities
                                          CommunitiesGuided and responsible learner engagement in service
                                          3Levels.orgFeedback about resource usefulness, testimonials about support quality