Hunt empowers political science students through service-learning

Charlie Hunt, an assistant professor in the School of Public Service who teaches POLS 402: Campaigns and Elections, has integrated service-learning into his course to give students practical, real-world experience while addressing the pressing issue of voter participation among college students. In partnership with the League of Women Voters of Idaho, Hunt's course equips students with the skills to overcome the barriers young voters face while also fostering civic engagement.

Student Learning

The class see students work in small groups to create nonpartisan voter engagement deliverables, such as social media posts, flyers or event proposals, designed to encourage their peers to register to vote and make informed decisions on how they will cast their ballots. In addition, students staff a voter registration table along with the League of Women Voters.

Through this project, students develop key skills in communication, collaboration and information literacy. They are also tasked with constructing a clear argument, using class materials to defend their design choices, and presenting their work professionally to both their classmates and the League of Women Voters. This real-world application of their course content helps students bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing them to be effective advocates for civic participation.

Community Impact

The service-learning project directly addresses the issue of low voter turnout among college students. The student work was shared with the League of Women Voters, who used selected content in their outreach efforts during tabling events at Boise State.

"We just could not have had the success we had on Boise State's National Voter Registration Day without help from the students in Charlie Hunt's Political Science 402 class," Jean Henshied from the League of Women Voters said. "They did more than help, they coordinated the event. They were not shy about encouraging their fellow students to vote. Dr. Hunt's goal to build student understanding of election systems was made real in the students' efforts to guide others in the registration process. They were reassuring, honest, clear and positive. We hope it was a memorable and motivating experience for these young leaders."

This collaboration not only strengthens the students' connection to their community but also creates a lasting impact by supporting voter engagement initiatives that reach beyond the classroom.

Instructor Investment

Hunt's thoughtful design of this service-learning project demonstrates his commitment to both student learning and community benefit. By collaborating closely with the League of Women Voters, he ensures that students are supported throughout the project, from initial orientation to final deliverable submission. The League of Women Voters provides students with ongoing feedback, helping to refine their projects and ensuring that the work meets the needs of the community. Hunt's regular communication with the League of Women Voters and his structured reflection exercises also help students connect their service experience with course content, fostering a deeper understanding of the barriers to voting and the importance of civic participation.

For more information on integrating service-learning into a course, visit boisestate.edu/servicelearning or contact [email protected].

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