Robert Sigmon (1994, p.1) states that "many definitions and approaches have been used within
the general framework of linking service with learning."
Below are 3 definitions of Service-Learning to consider:
Definition One:
The National and Community Service Trust Act of 1990 provides the nation with a clear
definition: "Service-Learning is a method -
A) under which students learn and develop
through active participation in thoughtfully organized service that is:
(1) conducted in and meets the needs of a community; (2) is coordinated with an elementary
school, secondary school, institution of higher education, or community service program,
and with the community; (3) helps foster civic responsibility; and
B) 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
their service experience."
Definition Two:
The National Youth Leadership Council (1991) defines Service-Learning as:
"A teaching/learning method that connects meaningful community service with academic learning,
personal growth, and civic responsibility."
Definition Three:
A concise definition is provided by Follman, Watkins, and Wilkes (1994):
"Service-Learning is the formal integration of service into student instruction and learning."
The goal for teachers is to connect students with the community in service activity that blends
with and enhances academic learning in the classroom as well as provides them with a voice in
their school experience. The "community" may be defined as the greater school site, the local
neighborhood, city, state, nation, or world. Through such efforts, students have the opportunity
to apply knowledge in a real world setting and learn that their lives make a difference in a democratic society.
Studies have shown that service activity can impact students' learning potential within their
academic curriculum, an impact not obtained without the service component. In conclusion,
service-learning occurs when there is an integration and balance between learning goals (skills and content)
and service outcomes.
Entry #3:
Reviewing the discussion above, in your response journal, define the following terms:
- Service-Learning
- Community
- Civic responsibility
- Learning goals
- Academic curriculum
- Community service
Be ready to exchange definitions with a classmate and compare ideas. Be ready to discuss them in a group setting/chatroom.
Entry #4:
Discuss what questions and thoughts you have about service-learning at this time.
E-mail your entry to your instructor as an attachment.
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