Congratulations!
By showing an interest in Service-Learning, you are now exciting
method of theory application. It will require much effort and
sacrifice on your part but will also yield large returns. Before
you get started there are a few things you need to know. Let's
begin.
What is
Service-Learning?
Service Learning is a teaching and learning method that connects
meaningful community service experiences with academic learning,
personal growth and civic responsibility. Service learning enhances what
is taught in the college by extending student's learning beyond the
classroom and providing opportunities for students to use newly acquired
skills and knowledge in teal life situations in their own communities.
How is it Different?
Service learning is different from
charity or volunteerism in that it is a reciprocal effort. Both the
"server" and those being served are teaching and learning
during their interaction. The community is seen as a teacher by
providing the student with tangible experience related to course
content. The student is also a teacher by providing energy, and ideas to
the community. In a true service learning model, the community, the
students, and professor are partners in the learning process.
What are the
benefits of Service-Learning?
Research has shown that more learning takes place when a student
practices what they learn. One of the best ways to help yourself
is to help someone else. The community service experiences that
you will gain can have an impact on the rest of your life.
Community agencies often operate with
limited funds; volunteers make up a large part of their work
force. Many times these volunteers have the passion and desire to
help but may not have the skills to do certain activities.
Students, because they possess some level of knowledge in specific
areas, can often make a difference in the operations of community
agencies.
Want to learn more?
If your professor uses Service-Learning as part of teaching the course
content and you would like to know how to get started, please click here
to download a Student Service-Learning handbook
(PDF version). PDF files require Adobe® Acrobat
Reader, click here to download a free copy from the Adobe® Systems
Inc., Website.
If you prefer, click here
to view specific
sections as html files.
If you would like information on how to suggest to your professor that
you would like to use Service-Learning as a method of learning the
course content, please click here.
More resources, please click here.
