Service Learning
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"Learning is the process whereby knowledge is created through the transformation of experience"- Kol
Under ideal conditions, service-learning aims to create mutual benefits both to those serving as well as those being served. Students gain from the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a "real-world" setting while communities and surrounding organizations gain assistance in working towards identified needs or issues of concern.
Although seemingly a simple process of matching students to community organizations, in order to be effective and result in meaningful connections, service-learning must be carefully planned with ongoing communication and input from all stakeholders. A commonly accepted service-learning "cycle" is often based upon the following elements: (Click on each item to expand)
Preparation
- identifying and analyzing the need
- training and orientation
- selecting and planning the project
Action
- meets academic goals
- has adequate supervision
- provides for student ownership
- is developmentally appropriate
Reflection
- continuous throughout project
- "bridge" linking service and learning
- i.e. discussion, reading, writing, art works
Evaluation
- continuous throughout project
- input from all involved
- provides usable results
- used in future project planning/implementation
Celebration/ Recognition
- provides closure
- increases sense of value/appreciation
- encourages future participation
- i.e. certificates, media coverage, joint celebrations (students and communities), sharing a meal
Beyond the experience, skills, and learning outcomes service-learning provides students, lie opportunities to create and foster a sense of ongoing community involvement - often termed civic engagement. This sense of connectedness or ownership within one's community - both locally and globally, results from meaningful service experiences where participants realize that their actions can make a difference, therefore empowering participants to continue involvement beyond their classroom experiences. For more information please check out our section on civic engagement!
Within our Service-Learning Toolkit you will find more information on the value of service-learning, best practices, and how to integrate service-learning into a curriculum. In addition, the Resources and Links section will provide you with websites, articles, and books to learn more about all service-learning has to offer!