Service Learning

Service learning is a teaching method that combines academic instruction, meaningful service, and critical reflective thinking to enhance student learning and civic responsibility. Service learning is a wonderful way to educate and support character education while building community.

Service learning differs from community service or volunteerism in two distinct ways:

1. The service activity is integrated with academic curriculum and content

2. Students engage in structured reflection of their service experiences and apply their learning in real-life activities.

Four steps to service-learning:

1. Preparation: identify a need (student driven, teacher inspired), analyze the underlying problem, develop a plan

2. Action: has value, purpose, and meaning

3. Reflection: structured time for this (discussion, feedback)

4. Celebration: share with others