Defining Service-Learning

kfred85 — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:33:07 +0100

There is much debate in the educational field about how to define service-learning. Should it be hyphenated or not? Should the emphasis be on service or learning? How much time is required before it can be called service-learning?

The National Service-Learning Clearinghouse defines service-learning as follows:

Service-learning
is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful
community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the
learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen
communities. Full Text

The Clearinghouse has a fine definition that is widely used. Personally, I feel that doesn't mean anything to some people.

I am here to give my take on things, admittedly biased by my employment. I don't think it matters if it is hyphenated or not but for consistency's sake, pick one. So here is my one definition:

Service-learning should represent an opportunity for students to apply what they are learning in class to the real world in a way that benefits themselves and the community equally.

The equality and balance of who is gaining is crucial to maintaining true service-learning. If one party (community or students) is benefiting more than the other, it cannot be called service-learning. Another crucial piece is reflection. The students must reflect upon their experiences and how they are relevant! Without this piece, it is just glorified community service.

I am not writing to discourage community service or say that it is bad in anyway. However, there is evidence to suggest that true service-learning benefits our students more than community service does . It is through the nature of reflection that this deeper learning can happen.

Our students are growing frustrated with us, especially in higher education. We are often presented with a group of civically minded individuals. They want to help their communities, yet when required to do service-learning for a course, they are not happy. Where is the disconnect?

We need to make service-learning meaningful again. Faculty and staff are losing the meaning of service-learning. It is becoming one more thing to ask of our students because it looks good for the institution.

Service opportunities need to directly relate to the course and the student's future. If the student feels there is no relation to his/her life, there will be little excitement. We need to help nurture those connections and find the meaning again or we risk losing a valuable tool to the catcombs of boredom.

Thank you to @AllMuscle1 for the inspiration.

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Defining Service-Learning