What is a Learning Contract for Fredonia State University Internships?

Definition and Meaning of a Learning Contract

A learning contract at Fredonia State University is a formal agreement that outlines the educational objectives, responsibilities, and assessment criteria for students participating in credit-bearing internships. This document serves as a roadmap for both the student and the faculty sponsor, ensuring that all parties have a clear understanding of the expectations and outcomes associated with the internship experience. The learning contract typically includes specific learning goals, required activities, and methods for evaluating the student’s performance.

For instance, a learning contract may specify that a student will develop skills in project management while working at a local non-profit organization. It could detail the projects the student will undertake, the skills they are expected to acquire, and how their performance will be evaluated, such as through regular feedback sessions or a final presentation.

Key Elements of the Learning Contract

Several critical components are essential for a comprehensive learning contract:

• Learning Objectives: Clearly defined goals that outline what the student intends to learn during the internship.
• Responsibilities: A detailed description of the roles and responsibilities of the student, faculty sponsor, and site supervisor.
• Activities: Specific tasks and projects the student will engage in, providing practical experience related to their field of study.
• Evaluation Methods: Criteria and methods for assessing the student’s performance, including feedback mechanisms and grading systems.
• Approval Process: Steps required for the contract to be reviewed and approved by the relevant parties before the internship begins.

How to Use the Learning Contract

Utilizing a learning contract involves several steps to ensure it meets the needs of all parties involved:

• Initial Discussion: Students should discuss their internship goals with their faculty sponsor to identify key learning objectives.
• Drafting the Contract: After establishing goals, the student drafts the learning contract, incorporating feedback from the faculty sponsor and site supervisor.
• Review and Revise: The draft should be reviewed by all parties, allowing for revisions to ensure clarity and mutual agreement.
• Final Approval: Once all parties agree on the content, the contract must be signed to formalize the agreement.

Steps to Complete the Learning Contract

Completing a learning contract involves a structured process:

• Step One: Identify the internship site and the supervisor who will oversee the student’s work.
• Step Two: Collaborate with the faculty sponsor to establish clear learning objectives that align with the internship experience.
• Step Three: Outline specific activities and responsibilities that the student will undertake during the internship.
• Step Four: Define the evaluation methods and criteria that will be used to assess the student’s performance.
• Step Five: Submit the completed contract for review and obtain necessary signatures.

Importance of the Learning Contract

The learning contract is vital for several reasons:

• Clarity: It provides a clear framework for what is expected from the student, the faculty sponsor, and the site supervisor.
• Accountability: Establishes accountability among all parties, ensuring that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.
• Structured Learning: Facilitates a structured approach to experiential learning, linking academic theory with practical application.
• Assessment: Provides a basis for evaluating the student’s performance, which is crucial for academic credit.

Who Uses the Learning Contract?

The learning contract is primarily used by:

• Students: Those participating in internships to gain practical experience while earning academic credit.
• Faculty Sponsors: Instructors who guide and support students in their learning objectives and assess their performance.
• Site Supervisors: Professionals at the internship site who oversee the student’s work and provide feedback on their performance.

Examples of Learning Contracts in Action

Learning contracts can vary widely based on the internship context. Here are a few examples:

• Marketing Internship: A student may focus on developing social media campaigns, with objectives including increasing engagement by a specific percentage.
• Research Assistantship: A student might work on data collection and analysis, with learning goals centered around mastering specific research methodologies.
• Teaching Internship: A student may create lesson plans and teach classes, with objectives related to classroom management and instructional strategies.

Legal Use of the Learning Contract

The learning contract must adhere to legal standards to ensure its validity:

• Compliance: It should comply with university policies and any relevant state or federal regulations regarding internships.
• Confidentiality: Any sensitive information shared during the internship must be handled in accordance with privacy laws.
• Liability: The contract may include clauses that address liability and responsibilities to protect all parties involved.