From Traditional to Client-Based Nonprofit Management Course Design: Reflections on a Recent Course Conversion

Abstract

This article contributes to the literature on the role of client-based community service-learning courses in Masters of Public Administration programs. It focuses on how to design client-based service-learning courses that benefit students and community partners without placing undue burdens on faculty. After providing a synopsis of common challenges and associated solutions identified in recent literature, we describe key elements of a recent course conversion and share our reflections on its implementation. We focus on course design because learning outcomes are affected by both the design and management of community servicelearning courses. By discussing course design in more detail, we aim to help faculty assess whether they have the resources to successfully implement client-based service-learning courses. The article concludes with reflections on the effectiveness of the innovations we implemented, a checklist of considerations for designing similar courses, and considerations for adapting our model to other settings.

Keywords:

• client-based courses
• community service learning
• course design
• nonprofit management

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jennifer Shea

Jennifer Shea is an assistant professor in the Public Administration program, School of Public Affairs and Civic Engagement at San Francisco State University. She oversees nonprofit management studies, teaches a range of nonprofit management courses, and conducts community-engaged research. Her current research focuses on nonprofit intermediaries, finance and revenue diversification in housing nonprofits, and community resilience.

Amy Farah Weiss

Amy Farah Weiss received a Masters of Arts in Organizational Development and Training from San Francisco State University. She is currently focused on supporting inclusive, enriching, and sustainable development in her San Francisco neighborhood as the founder of Neighbors Developing Divisadero.