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Our goal for
the next two to three years is to move toward expanding SBCSLI’s community
network, and support Service Learning as an effective strategy to engage our
youth in active participation in their communities. To that end, we have
introduced Action Networks as a way to accomplish that goal. For
2009-10, SBCSLI’s work will be focused into four areas. Each of these four
areas will use the Action Network format as a framework for sharing their
work and their practice. Each Action Network has a Site Advocate serving as
Facilitator, as well as a Coordinator/Liaison to assist the Facilitator. Each
group will initially meet face to face and then determine how subsequent
“meetings” will take place (i.e. in-person, electronically, or by phone).
The purpose of these meetings is to provide support, the sharing of ideas,
opportunities for collaboration, and dissemination of resource information. At
this time, we have 4 Action Networks in place. Download
Action
Network handout (Word
DOC)
"We are wiser than we know." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Service Learning Action Networks in North County are:
An action network is usually made up of five to twenty
people. Fewer than five makes it hard to have a good discussion and more than
twenty makes it hard for everyone to be heard. They agree to meet several times
to address a social or public issue or to study an academic, cultural or
personal interest subject. Complex topics are broken down into manageable parts
and controversial issues can be dealt with in depth. While single session
programs can result in meaningful and productive dialogue, multiple sessions
generate continuity and camaraderie within the group. Reading material and
audio/visual aids stimulate dialogue from a common reference point. There is no teacher in an action network, but a facilitator who keeps the network focused while moving in the direction chosen by the participants. The learning comes from the participants' involvement in the discussion and the study materials. Cooperation, participation, and respect are stressed so that the group can capitalize on the experience and wisdom of all its members. All viewpoints are taken seriously and each member has an equal opportunity to participate. The goal is to deepen understanding of an issue and awareness of the values that underlie opinions. The Watershed Action Network (10 members) The Garden Nutrition Action Network (8 members) The School and Community Needs Action Network - North County (11 members) The School and Community Needs Action Network - South County (8 members) For more information about individual teachers and their projects, please check out Project Description and the Site Advocate Directory.
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