The California State University has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the W.M. Keck Foundation that will fund a study on the impact of service-learning courses in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.

Service-learning combines classroom instruction with meaningful community service. The practice has a strong correlation to student success in most academic disciplines, but there is a lack of research on its impact in STEM. In partnership with the California Campus Compact, a statewide service-learning organization, the CSU’s Center for Community Engagement will investigate the practice’s impact on student success in STEM fields.

The research—funded over 18 months—will evaluate students’ success through measures including academic achievement, career development and civic engagement.

“Service-learning has been a hallmark of the CSU for more than 15 years, and funding from the Keck Foundation will enable the CSU to lead the first research study of its kind on the quality of STEM service-learning courses and its influence on student success,” said CSU Center for Community Engagement Director Judy Botelho. “The study will also enhance the CSU’s efforts to support the development of engaging hands-on learning experiences where students can apply STEM course material in a real-world setting.”

The CSU is committed to equipping California’s students with 21st century skills for tomorrow’s workforce needs. Students enrolled in STEM service-learning courses acquire technical skills, increase career awareness and understand how science relates to the world around them. The CSU has undertaken active steps to further STEM engaged learning and this study will complement existing efforts across the system.