School of Social Work

FAQs About Service-Learning

Service-learning is the intentional connection of service and learning so that each strengthens the other
The service is essential to the course, not an add-on
The service experience is a resource, like a textbook

Partnership with non-profit agency
Service experience is fully integrated with course content and students experience real need for course learning
Service meets real needs of the community (from local to global) as defined by that community
Guided reflection—learning and development do not necessarily occur as a result of experience itself but as a result of a reflective component explicitly designed to foster learning and development
Reciprocity—both the server and those served receive valuable experiences and learning

Students can learn about the needs and issues of a special population and explore career interests
Provides exposure to agencies, public and agency policies, problem areas, and the strengths of clients
Promotes cooperation and a sense of community among students
Promotes active rather than passive learning—students cannot help being actively engaged in the process
Encourages student-teacher interaction about real and immediate issues and concepts
Encourages students to step outside their comfort zones at the same time that it provides support and encouragement—from the teacher, the site staff, and other students
Promotes initiative, teamwork and problem solving skills
Students feel better prepared for and less apprehensive about field work
Provides material for resume and makes students more employable
Students feel more confident about their abilities
Students learn how to be an effective citizens