Service-learning
Service learning is a method of teaching that combines formal instruction with a related service in the community. Advocates claim that learning is enhanced through direct application in appropriate social contexts of principles and practices taught through formal instruction concurrent with guided reflection of the student's experiences. Service learning is frequently implemented as youth service. As a teaching method, service learning is best categorized as a form of experiential education. Specifically, service learning integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, encourage lifelong civic engagement, and strengthen communities for the common good.The Community Service Act of 1990, which authorized the Learn and Serve America grant program, defines service learning as:
"a method under which students or participants learn and develop through active participation in thoughtfully organized service that is conducted in and meets the needs of a community; is coordinated with an elementary school, secondary school, institution of higher education, or community service program, and with the community; and helps foster civic responsibility; and that is integrated into and enhances the academic curriculum of the students, or the educational components of the community service program in which the participants are enrolled; and provides structured time for the students or participants to reflect on the service experience."
Service learning offers students immediate opportunities to apply classroom learning to support or enhance the work of local agencies that often exist to effect positive change in the community. The National Youth Leadership Council defines service learning as "a philosophy, pedagogy, and model for community development that is used as an instructional strategy to meet learning goals and/or content standards."
"Service learning is a method of instruction in which classroom learning is enriched and applied through service to others” (Florida Department of Education).
Read more about Service-learning: Key Components, Origins of Service-Learning, Various Types of Service-Learning Plans, Comprehensive Action Plan For Service Learning (CAPSL), Typology, Objections To Service Learning, Community-engaged Writing, Service Learning in Language Education, Effect On Engineering Education, Supporting Programs, Notable People