Best Practice Sharing 2013

Site Based Teams   

• Best Practice Description 
• We have noticed that many Bonner schools are utilizing site-based teams, which allow students to work on more in-depth projects at service sites and develop leadership and critical thinking skills.  At Emory & Henry we have begun to utilize this site-based model, creating student service-site leaders.  We have also piloted student reflection leaders. Two Bonners from each class were chosen to lead their class meetings, issue meetings, and help with developing journal prompts.  They met regularly as a group of reflection leaders, with the Bonner Senior Interns and with the Bonner Coordinator. 
• Additionally, they were required to arrive on campus early to attend a reflection training day and assist with Bonner First-Year Orientation.  This new model created more rich discussions at meetings around local, national, global issues.  Students began making more connections between and among their service sites, classes, and personal experiences.  When asked why these conversations were richer, students commented that having a peer lead discussion allowed them to feel more comfortable and motivated to express themselves.

• Samples or Relevant Resource Material 
• None Provided