1. Service Learning Educational strategy designed to involve students in meaningful service to their communities

2. Definitions Combines the objective of service projects with the learning objectives of the classroom in a way that both the provider of service and the recipient of the service are changed in positive ways Integrates career development into the classroom through “hands-on” experience and self-discovery Personal and social development

3. Basis in theory Piaget’s theory of cognitive and affective development provides a psychological foundation for service learning Stages of development Factors that influence maturation of children Types of knowledge

4. Benefits Improved student attendance Knowledge Skill acquisition Teamwork skills – operation and development Higher empathy scores Kinesthetic modality Reinforce concepts delivered in a classroom (visual and auditory learners) Increase student self-esteem

5. Best Practices / Components Curriculum integration Reflection Maximize student participation, “Voice” Professional Development Community Partnerships Values Diversity Evaluation/Assessment

6. Examples Animal shelter Homeless shelter Battered women’s shelter Day care for low-income children Adult day care for Alzheimer’s patients