In a nutshell:
Service learning must be closely tied to course objectives.
Service learning requires active reflection following the event/project.
Service learning has the "feel good" and active citizenship benefits of volunteering and service alone, plus it enhances learning.
Service learning has been defined as "the process of integrating volunteer community service combined with active guided reflection into the curriculum to enhance and enrich student learning of material" (David Johnson, Miami-Dade C.C.).
Service learning is distinct from service/volunteering in that service alone, while beneficial in itself, may not be systematically incorporated into the learning process. When a service/volunteer project is complete, it may or may not be reflected upon with respect to how it relates to course objectives. With service learning, the "circle" is completed. Students are required to tie their experience back to course objectives. This can be done through individual reflection papers or group discussion.
Service-learning often may involve teaching others some of the course content/information has been learned by the student. Teaching is one of the best ways to truly learn information. It requires full processing of the topic so that others' questions can be answered. Many students memorize course information for an exam and then quickly forget it. Most students (and most of us in general) are usually motivated to do a good job and not embarrass ourselves in front of others. Thus, we put in the effort to learn information well enough to competently teach it to others. The end result is that a deeper level of understanding and more complete learning occur.
Service learning may also involve a project for the community (university or city) that requires understanding of course content in order for students to be able to complete it. Because it is being done for others and not just for course credit, it becomes service. The process of reflection and meaningful integration into the course will make it service learning. As with the teaching projects, because the projects involve others, the students are usually motivated to a greater level than for projects that don't leave the classroom.
In addition to enhancing learning, service learning (as with service alone) can give students the sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that occurs when helping others. The positive feedback from participants makes the event enjoyable, even if it was originally dreaded because of the extra effort it would require, or due to fear of speaking in front of others. My experience has consistently been that following our service-learning events, my students have unanimously told me I should always include such a requirement in my course. Many of my students discovered positive aspects of themselves that will carry over into the rest of their lives. Many discover how rewarding service can be -- it's not just volunteering time or money -- it can make a meaningful difference in others' lives. Such experiences can be the foundation for involved citizenship.
Some example projects from my classes in the past:
Some example
reflection paper assignments.
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