Reflecting on Service The Resource Center and The National Service-Learning Clearinghouse

A few words to reflect on Experience is not what happens to people; it is what people do with what happened to them. - Aldous Huxley (with liberties)

A few words to reflect on We do not learn from doing, we learn from thinking about what we do. - Northwest Service Academy

Why reflect? Gives meaning to the experience Relieves tension & re-energizes Sense of accomplishment Integrates service into one's life Reality check Acknowledges gained skills

Research shows Reflection has some positive impact on volunteers The lack of reflection has a strong NEGATIVE impact

Three stages of reflection Pre-service During service Post-service

Three stages of reflection Pre-service:  examine own beliefs, assumptions, attitudes

Three stages of reflection During service:  learn from peers  share observations and feedback  ask questions  solve problems

Three stages of reflection Post-service:  evaluate impact of service  acknowledge personal growth

Reflection may include Reactions Feelings Observations Ideas

Reflection can happen through Writing Speaking Listening Reading Drawing Acting

Reflection should: Have an outcome in mind Be appropriate for the group Happen before, during, and after service Be directly linked to the project experience

Reflection should: Dispel stereotypes Address negative experiences Increase awareness of community needs Increase commitment to service

Reflection should: Be varied for different learning styles Actively involve the service recipients Be facilitated well for maximum participation, creativity, and learning