Community-Based Learning

Community-Based Learning (CBL)

Community-Based Learning (CBL) links the classroom to the community in an experiential learning process. With Community-Based Learning, the professor, the students and the community partner learn collaboratively while positively impacting the Rockford community. CBL supports Rockford University students in reflective experiential learning through community partnerships, local-to-global, that provide mutually positive educational outcomes.

CBL courses encourage students to practice good citizenship and promote a sense of social activism. Founded at Rockford University in the early 1990s, our CBL program is based on the conviction that Rockford University is a citizen of the community and that the community has a stake in Rockford University, as well. The work that the students perform serves the dual function of providing a defined need for the community while also fulfilling a specific learning objective determined by the professor.‌

CBL courses offer a class component not available through other teaching methods. Professor Cathy Headley of the Kinesiology Department regularly offers CBL classes and describes them as “powerful” because CBL “allows scholars to step out of the classroom and truly immerse themselves in their field. It’s not just about gaining hands-on experience—though that matters. It’s also about awakening something deeper. When students serve others, something in their hearts ignites.” She often reminds her students, “You’ve been given an incredible opportunity to attend college. Giving back to the community is one way to say thank you.” Professor Headley says, “Service has always been part of who I am—I believe it’s woven into all of us. And through community engagement, we’re given a meaningful chance to share that part of ourselves.”