What is Service-Learning?

Service-Learning is one approach to learning through which students identify, research and address real community issues while using and increasing skills and knowledge from their school curriculum.  There are three essential components to an effective service-learning project :

• Academic Rigor: by tying service-learning projects to local curriculum requirements, teachers play an important facilitation role, actively helping students link their community experiences with lasting academic learning.
•  Student Voice: projects engage students in designing and implementing projects, giving them greater confidence and a heightened enthusiasm for learning.
•  Community Partnership: students develop expertise in community issues by seeking out and working with local experts, community organizations, and government agencies.  Community members value the work that students do because it meets genuine community needs.

Why Service-Learning?

Service-Learning benefits students, teachers and the community alike.  Students become strong communicators and problem-solvers while solving real-world problems which engage them in learning.  Educators are reenergized with new teaching structures and schedules, while incorporating key school reform initiatives.  By acting as a partner and providing an authentic setting, communities reap needed improvements and strengthen ties with schools and its youth.  Because service-learning offers a fluid teaching method, it can be used in many different contexts.

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