The Centers

Research and Public Service Centers in the College of Education and Public Policy provide research expertise and service-learning services for students. Students work with faculty and staff, gaining valuable research, training, program development, and program evolution experience that complements their academic studies. These Centers provide students with opportunities to learn about the “real world” of human development and family studies. They also provide sites for classroom observation assignments, volunteering, and sometimes employment as well.

Center for Community Research and Service
The Center for Community Research and Service provides useable knowledge, education, training, and services that enhance the ability of organizations and communities to promote social and economic justice. The Center conducts research, training, and service projects with not-for-profit organizations, local and regional governments, and advocacy organizations.

Center for Counseling and Student Development
The University Center for Counseling and Student Development has programs designed to contribute to the personal, educational, and career goals of University students. In addition to counseling services, the Center also conducts training and education programs on the topics of career development, communication skills, conflict resolution and many other areas. The Center is a training site for our M.A. students.

Center for Disabilities Studies
The Center for Disabilities Studies is one of 67 Centers of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities funded by the U.S. Administration on Developmental Disabilities. Its mission is to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families throughout Delaware through education, research and services. The Center conducts program evaluations and research, provides pre-service and in-service instruction and training, and provides model services for children, youth and adults with disabilities. Students often work part-time or volunteer at the Center.

The College School
At The College School, elementary and middle school children flourish in a kind and supportive school environment. By providing small class sizes and an individualized, highly structured program of instruction, teachers help to narrow the gap between a student's potential and achievement. Students are afforded opportunities to acquire academic and social skills similar to those acquired by students in traditional schools. Our goal is to return each student to a mainstream academic environment in an average of two to three years.

Early Learning Center
The Early Learning Center (ELC) is a University-wide education, service, and research program housed in the College of Education, and Public Policy. Serving over 220 children ages six weeks to 12 years, the ELC has over 5,000 visitors a year and provides instruction to over 500 university students annually from twenty different University departments. Students complete classroom observations here and volunteer as well.

Laboratory Preschool
The Laboratory Preschool is a 75 year old education, research and service unit of the College of Education and Public Policy. The Lab School services over 60 children, ages two to five, in an inclusive early education setting. Over 100 students per semester are receiving instruction in early childhood education, research, and human service practices in the school. The Lab School also serves as a research site for faculty conducting investigations in language development, social-personal development, curriculum implementation, and many other topics. Students complete classroom observations here as well as volunteer.