Service Learning Charles Kim & Tim Raymond
From Bucknell OSL Service-learning refers to educational experiences that link academic course work with efforts to meet a community need. Service-learning works to benefit the public good while it also benefits learners by promoting: Knowledge of course Understanding of the field of study A sense of civic responsibility
My take on it: Organized service performed by students Conducted to meet needs of “client” Enhances student learning of curriculum Includes structured reflection Can be one small project or entire course
My Example: Atmospheric Chemistry & Physics course One team project Learning goals: Focus on an area to become an expert in Transmit info to non-technical audience Service goal: Assist local schools with teaching students
What I DidWhat I’d Change Students picked topic Students worked alone Students did presentations at LHS Student did reflection paper for me Students get feedback from me Client picks topic Students work with client Students prepare re- useable materials too Students do reflections for me Students also get feedback from client and other students
Other things I would change Make expectations more clear Give more guidance Present grading rubrics upfront Meet more often with teams Do trial run for class to get feedback
What students can reflect on Events - ask students to describe what they did & what happened at their site Self - ask students to describe any changes they become aware of in their skills, values, attitudes and behaviors as a result of their service Others - ask students to reflect on what they are doing and the people with whom they are working Social issues - ask students to reflect on the issues that are related to their site Citizenship - ask students to reflect on what they did and what it means to their school and/or community Service - ask students to reflect on the reasons why helping others and being involved in service is L Richard Bradley, Ph. D., 1999
Reflection activities engage students in the intentional consideration of their experiences in light of particular learning objectives, and provide an opportunity for students to: gain further understanding of the course content and discipline gain further understanding of the service experience develop self-assessment skills as a life-long learner explore and clarify values that can lead to civic responsibility reflection 3 (Hatcher & Bringle, 1997 )