![]() |
The Campus-Community Connection: Understanding Service LearningPosted by Dr. Cynthia Crespin |
Jun 24
|
Service Learning–it’s a big trend gaining increased popularity on college campuses nation-wide. Do you know someone–a son or daughter, niece or nephew, grandchild or friend–currently in college who is participating in a Service Learning program? If so, you may be quietly wondering about the specifics of this experiential education approach and feeling eager to learn more.
So, what exactly does “Service Learning” mean? When students enroll in a Service Learning course, it indicates the professor has included a community service component as a class requirement. The hands-on service component represents a large assignment, but it doesn’t necessarily replace other traditional requirements such as a research paper or final exam.
In a Service Learning course, students demonstrate an in-depth understanding by integrating the course material with the lessons gained from their direct service. This learning objective is typically accomplished through a paper, presentation, or other reflection method such as a journal. The amount of service and reflection required is decided by the professor. Consequently, Service Learning programs do vary depending on the academic focus, integration activities, and level of civic engagement.
Curious about the advantages of Service Learning? What do students gain from a Community Based Learning approach?
Benefits include:
Understanding the integration of theory and practice
Making a vital contribution to serve local community’s needs
Gaining civic skills and competencies
Sharing learning and service with peers
Acquiring leadership and mentoring skills
Learning in a real-world environment
Feeling enthusiasm for relevant coursework and community based problem-solving
From the Ivy League to state schools, many institutions of higher learning are now providing community based learning (CBL) for students. Currently, some of the most respected and innovative Service Learning and Civic Engagement programs are offered by: Northeastern (MA); Alverno College (WI); Antioch (OH); Brown (RI); Duke (NC); Georgetown (DC); Marquette (WI); Michigan State; Providence College (RI); Stanford (CA); Trinity College (CT); University of California-Berkeley; University of Colorado-Boulder; University of Michigan-Ann Arbor; Notre Dame (IN); University of Pennsylvania and Colorado College. Opportunities for Service Learning abound from coast to coast.
With so many colleges designing and implementing Service Learning programs, there are more choices than ever for community-service oriented students. Encourage your college-bound children to check out schools, that implement Service Learning, in the geographic region(s) of interest to them. When students learn more by helping their local communities grow stronger, it’s a win-win for everyone!

No Comments | Tags: Service-Learning, Leadership, 401Kid College Savings Blog |Discuss this topics in the forum
















real concerns about his plan, as a parent, that I wanted to discuss with an educational specialist and career coach like you.
A final word of reassurance? Your son’s employability will be enhanced when he graduates. Service Learning experience impresses employers; it demonstrates maturity, empathy, teamwork skills, and a commitment to serving those in need. Coursework is also considered important, but as far as businesses are concerned, there’s no substitute for real world experience. After learning more about all the positives inherent in Service Learning, I hope you feel proud of your son’s decision. It’s a great one that will serve him (and the community) well!
I’m so glad to have the chance to talk with an education expert like you. I know from your bio that you have tons of experience relating to college and career issues, so I wanted to ask you some questions, if that’s OK. Lately my niece, who is majoring in Business, has been talking a lot about doing a Minor in Leadership Studies. Yesterday, she told me she had decided to do it. For me, this seems like a big red flag. Shouldn’t she be focusing on her major?
Thanks for all the great questions! It’s great to hear from you and I’m glad to serve as a helpful resource for you. Let’s address those concerns of yours one at a time.