There are many benefits to incorporating service learning into your course. Service learning is a method of teaching and learning that enriches academic experiences and life-long learning by engaging students in meaningful hands-on service in the community. Key components to service learning include:
- Connecting service with learning - academically rigorous, meaningful service with a significant positive impact upon those involved
- Reflection - assessment of personal and community needs, reflection on participation, and evaluation of progress
- Reciprocity - both the student and community partner give and receive time, energy, knowledge, and creativity
- Critical thinking - involvement in situations conducive to creative, effective problem-solving
- Social responsibility - expansion of student's compassion, civic awareness, and desire to be engaged in the community
- Experiential learning- use of direct experience and hands-on learning to develop skills useful in future careers, family life, and community involvement
- Needs-based - project based on community-identified needs
Service Learning, Information Literacy, and Libraries by 