Imagine experiencing the Hispanic community and being immersed in the language without having to step foot outside of Vancouver.
That’s the goal of Spanish for Community, an experiential and service learning initiative created by Dr. Maria Carbonetti, Lecturer of Spanish in UBC’s Department of French, Hispanic & Italian Studies. Originally created in 2010, the community-based learning project helps participants strengthen their linguistic and cultural competence through learning projects with partner organizations in the Lower Mainland and abroad.
According to Dr. Carbonetti, Spanish for Community has not only bridged students and partner organizations, but it also complements, expands and deepens the subject matter of other courses in her department. The project represents UBC’s efforts in the areas of global and local community engagement and transformative learning (Strategy 19: Global Networks, Strategy 13: Practical Learning).
Visit the Department of French, Hispanic & Italian Studies’ website to learn about the unique benefits of community-engaged learning, and the impact that Spanish for Community has had on both students and community partners.