Engaged Learning
Engaged learning is a core element of the MDP pedagogical philosophy and curriculum, consistently with Emory’s emphasis on transformational approaches to sustainable development. This experience consists of a two-way process of cross-fertilization between community-based service learning and class-based critical reflection, supported by one-to-one student supervision by MDP personnel and by community mentors. For the first academic year of their Master’s program, students serve as interns for a few hours a week at community-based organizations in the greater Atlanta area, which work with low income neighborhoods, refugee and immigrant communities, and urban agriculture and environmental projects. Students dedicate the first semester to identify community organizations they want to work with, and the second semester to carry out a research project or programmatic work that enable them to practice skills learned in the classsroom and provide material for critical reflection in the context of coursework. In turn, community partners gain institutional capacity from sustained interaction with Emory faculty and students.
This aspect of the program is supported by a grant from the Community-Engaged Learning Initiative of the Center for Community Partnerships.