LEARNING TO SERVE

Catalog description

Our inquiry will focus on experiential learning that engages in service opportunities within our community as an integral part of our course. According to a recent study, "Service-learning enhances a 'traditional learning' course by allowing students the opportunity to link theory with practice, apply classroom learning to real-life situations, and provide students with a deeper understanding of course content" and that "service-learning may strengthen students' sense of civic responsibility as well as aiding them in dispelling any stereotypes they may hold regarding the population in which they are interacting." Students in such courses benefit from increased awareness of career options to which they might apply their learning, reinforcement of career choices, greater civic responsibility and commitment to service, enhanced critical thinking, communication skills, leadership, awareness of social responsibility and respect for cultural diversity.