Service Learning integrates meaningful community service with learning and reflection to teach civic responsibility and strengthen communities.
A Service Learning project: - includes an investigative process to identify a meaningful service
- provides intentional connections to academic(and social) learning
- incorporates opportunities for reflection throughout
- involves young people in the planning process to encourage “youth voice"
There are five components of Service Learning: Investigation, Preparation, Action, Reflection and Celebration/Demonstration. The Volunteer Center of Story County offers education and training on the topic of service learning. We can also assist educators and community groups with leading service learning projects. For more information on service learning, contact Shellie Orngard at shellie.orngard@vcstory.org or call 515-268-5323.
Advantages of Service Learning:For students: - Improvement in academic performance and critical thinking
- Greater self-esteem and assertiveness
- Stronger sense of civic, ethical and social responsibility
- Greater sense of relevance of and interest in the curriculum
For educators: - Increased excitement about their work
- Greater levels of confidence
- Stronger belief in the ability of their students to perform
- Greater levels of trust between students and educators
For the community: - More committed, informed citizens and volunteers
- Greater civic responsibility and engagement in the community.
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