Community-engaged writing initiative
Exploring how community-based writing projects can strengthen student learning, civic engagement and community partnerships
Suzanne Rintoul and Brooke Pratt, School of Interdisciplinary Studies
About the project
This research focused on developing a framework to support community-engaged writing at Conestoga. The project examined how writing activities connected to real-world community issues can enhance learning while building meaningful relationships among students, faculty and community partners.
The challenge
Traditional classroom writing assignments may not always provide opportunities for students to engage directly with community issues or audiences. The project sought to identify approaches that connect writing instruction with authentic community experiences while supporting student skill development.
Approach
- Investigated best practices in community-engaged writing and experiential learning
- Examined writing as a tool for public awareness, dialogue and community engagement
- Explored opportunities to strengthen partnerships between the college and community organizations
- Developed guidance to support future community-engaged writing projects
- Considered the needs of faculty, students and community partners in project design
Results
- Developed a guide to support community-engaged writing initiatives at Conestoga
- Created a foundation for future curriculum development and implementation
- Identified strategies for building meaningful partnerships with community organizations
- Generated insights into the educational benefits of community-based writing projects
- Established resources to support faculty and student participation in future initiatives
Why it matters
- Strengthens connections between classroom learning and real-world experiences
- Supports the development of communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Encourages civic engagement and community participation
- Promotes writing and literacy as tools for awareness, expression and dialogue
- Enhances collaboration among students, faculty and community partners