Service learning and civic engagement (SLICE) is an educational experience in which students participate in the organization and execution of service activities that address campus and community involvement. The following characteristics serve to enhance faculty, student, and community partners' understanding of this concept:

• As an educational experience, it meets academic learning objectives (spelled out in the syllabus).
• Involves experience with a community-based organization or group suitable for promoting civic learning.
• Involves structured reflection by students in order to gain better understanding of the material they are studying.
• Results in students having a greater appreciation of the discipline they are studying.
• Based upon principles of a campus-community partnership and reciprocity.
• The goal: To enhance or better the community, while increasing the students' sense of civic responsibility and engagement.