Extending Learning Through Service: Practical Strategies for Designing Meaningful Service-Learning Opportunities
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Authors
Buswa, Desta
Date
2015-07-27
Type
project
Language
en
Keyword
Service-learning, aboriginal, professional development, secondary school, medicine wheel
Alternative Title
Abstract
Service-learning has historical roots within the education system that have been maintained to present day models, which are implemented worldwide from elementary to post-secondary studies. The goal of service-learning is simple yet complex, as it takes on various forms and levels of application. However, the common denominator is that service leads to learning. The layers and depths of learning are uniquely discovered through the personal responses of local needs that are addressed through a call to action. The purpose of service-learning has developed over time, from providing post-secondary students an opportunity to interact with a wider segment of society to precise, strategic execution of curriculum expectations being met through application based learning. Types of service-learning opportunities range from one-time volunteer experiences, such as peer tutoring between college and high school students, to feeding the hungry through various campaigns. The results of service-learning have been recognized for creating awareness, fostering empathy, promoting civic engagement, and improving student success. Service-learning has a richer documented basis within American literature in comparison to Canadian references, however, the overall research in this field is lacking.