Types of Service-Learning
Academic service-learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.
Direct Service-Learning:
Face-to-face service projects in which the students’ service directly impacts individuals/agencies who receive the service from the students.
Examples:
- Tutoring at local schools or after-school programs
- Conducting art/music/dance lessons for youth
- Giving presentations on violence and drug prevention
- Share accounting or finance skills with a non-profit organization
- Teach computer skills to children or senior citizens
- Hold language classes for community groups
- Conduct historical studies in the community
- Help with Special Olympics
- Teach sports skills clinics
Indirect Service-Learning:
Working on current issues or agency projects that have clear benefits, but are not necessarily in direct contact with the agency or individual.
Examples:
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Compiling a town history
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Environmental study for a local government or community organization
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Removing invasive plants and restoring ecosystems in preserved areas for public use
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Test air, soil or water quality levels
Advocacy Service-Learning:
Educating others about topics of public interest–projects that aim to create awareness and action on issues that impact the community.
Examples:
- Planning and putting on public forums on topics of interest in the community
- Conducting public information campaigns on topics of interest or local needs
- Working with elected officials to draft legislation to improve communities