Service-Learning

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Service-Learning
Service-learning combines service to the community with student learning in a way that improves both the student and the community.
service learning
  • Is a method whereby students learn and develop through active participation in thoughtfully organized service that is conducted in and meets the need of communities.
  • Is coordinated with an elementary school, secondary school, institution of higher education, or community service program in the community.
  • Helps foster civic responsibility.
  • Is integrated into and enhances the academic curriculum of the students, or the education components of the community service program in which the participants enrolled.
  • Provides structured time for students or participants to reflect on the service experience.
    • (National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993)

    What Does Service-Learning Look Like?
    Examples of service-learning projects include:
    • Preserving native plants
    • Teaching younger children to read
    • Testing the local water quality
    • Drought awareness and conservation
    • Citizenship programs
    • Taxpayer awareness
    • Creating wheelchair ramps
    • Downtown farmer's markets
    • Public safety awareness/programs
    • Starting recycling programs
    • and much more!
    Why is Service-Learning Important?
    A national study of Learn and Serve America programs suggests that effective service-learning programs:
    • Improve academic grades
    • Increase attendance in school
    • Develop personal and social responsibility
    Whether the goal is academic improvement, personal development, or both, students learn:
    • Critical thinking
    • Communication
    • Teamwork
    • Civic responsibility
    • Mathematical reasoning
    • Problem solving
    • Public speaking
    • Vocational skills
    • Computer skills
    • Scientific method
    • Research skills
    • Analysis