Page Comparison

1.   Why is there a suffix to the courses for year-long service-learning?

A suffix (‘X’ or ‘Y’) is used here to differentiate the course by semester. For example, GEN2060X is offered in Semester 1 of the Academic Year and runs till the end of Special Term 2 of that Academic Year, whereas GEN2060Y is offered in Semester 2 of the Academic Year and runs till the end of Semester 1 of the following Academic Year. Thus, if you are interested to enrol in GEN2060 Reconnect SeniorsSG in Semester 1, choose GEN2060X; If interested to enrol in Semester 2, choose GEN2060Y.

2.   Can I still join a C&E service-learning course if I do not meet one or more of the specific requirements?

To be effective volunteers, ideally one should have a shared identity and cultural context with the service recipients, reflected in language accessibility or cultural understanding. One also needs to meet additional requirements that may be imposed by the overseeing ministry or national-level agency. However, if you are very keen despite not meeting one or more specific requirements, please email or speak with the Course Lead.

3.   I am already volunteering with a Social Enterprise, Social Service Agency, or a Non-Governmental Organization. Can I have that counted towards the C&E Pillar?

Presently, the answer is ‘no’. C&E is more than volunteering; it includes structured academic learning through the service or project work that invites students to think deeper about societal issues while taking constructive actions. The latter is not yet available for self-sourced volunteering work. Only work that is integrated within such an academic framework can qualify to be an academic course and accredited to the C&E pillar. Nevertheless, we continue to encourage you to give back to society in all forms of work that excite you. This should not be limited to the C&E pillar.

4.   I am going for a Student Exchange/Summer Programme/Winter Programme/Study Abroad Programme. Can I fulfil the C&E pillar by reading a course from the overseas/partner university?

According to General Education requirements, students admitted from AY2021/2022 onwards are allowed to fulfil GE pillar requirements by reading courses from overseas/partner universities. This applies to the C&E pillar as well.

5.   Why is the expected effort for service work and field/project work pegged at 60-80h?

We consider this the minimum for students to experience the situation in the social service or community landscape, make positive impact, and develop sufficient awareness for personal growth, including establishing individual moral compasses and refining personal effectiveness skills. This corresponds to an equivalent of about 7-10 days of volunteer work.

6.   Can I seek reimbursement for expenses, such as transport and other service-related expenditure, incurred during my service or field/project work?

In many cases, students reading C&E courses have to travel to external sites for volunteer service or community project work. This may mean incurring expenses in the conduct of your volunteering or project work. The University has made funds available to help defray travel costs, and support your C&E work in general. Click here for details.

7.   What should I do if I get into disagreements or other issues with my community partner, other stakeholders, or the persons whom I am supporting?

In the event that disagreements or other issues happen, please step out of the situation and call your C&E tutor or professor immediately for advice.

8.   I have other questions, who can I ask?

If you have any other queries, comments, or suggestions for improvement, please email the C&E team at AskCnE@nus.edu.sg.