Service-Learning

Service-Learning is an excellent way to incorporate classroom objectives into student experiences.  The literature on this subject is comprehensive and clear: service-learning invigorates educational subjects, improves student retention of material, and helps develop critical thinking.  (Eyler, Giles, Stenson, and Gray, 2001) 

Academic service learning is, essentially, a form of experiential learning where students integrate community service with the structured learning taking place in the classroom to enrich their learning of the course material.  In addition, Service-Learning helps students develop critical reflection, deepens their understanding of the complex causes of social problems, and enhances their skills in working collaboratively.

Service-Learning is more than just merely volunteering; it provides a level of critical thinking not obtained through regular volunteerism.  Since the service is academically anchored, it enhances what students are learning in a class and gives them an opportunity to actively reflect on what they are learning because of the experience.

After reviewing numerous available definitions of service-learning in the large body of literature related to engaged learning, the Committee agreed that the following definition for the National Service-learning Clearinghouse best suited the needs of APSU:

 “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.”