In the classroom, corpsmembers work collaboratively with other members on projects and activities, which allows them to organize themselves and to present ideas and mini-lessons to the class as a whole. Select AmeriCorps members participate in the Wisconsin AmeriCorps Leadership Council, which meets bi-monthly. Learning Connection MCSC's crews are not the only opportunities for work-based learning. Topics included in the training range from site investigation and site remediation to handling of hazardous material and treatment of industrial wastewater. Members also receive classroom training in health and safety, chemistry, geology and hydrogeology, computer skills and field monitoring and sampling equipment.
Participants tour wastewater treatment plants and firms involved in the environmental field.
MCSC conducts a quarterly progress report with each corps member that mirrors workplace performance reviews. Instructors and crew supervisors provide written and verbal feedback on academic and specific job skills as well as on attendance, punctuality, communication skills and attitude. Evidence of Success ES3 Comparative Measures MCSC uses a variety of sources to measure its success. These include articles from various corps newsletters, publications from the National Association of Service and Conservation Corps, journals on youth and community development and university research projects relevant to Milwaukee's socioeconomic condition. MCSC is contributing feedback and experience toward the improvement of practitioner-driven outcome assessment for the community development field.