Teaching and Learning

in a 2nd grade classroom

Service Learning

Service Learning is another form of experiential learning.  It is based almost directly from problem-based learning holding its roots in the community. It seems that with the world becoming more interconnected through technology, people are also growing further apart.  Now, more than ever, we need to teach out children to care for one another in a variety of ways.  We are all part of a global community and need to make the most out of this world to preserve what we have.  Through service learning, students can learn to be more caring,  be empathetic, show commitment, and many other positive character traits that help to build a stronger self and contribute to a productive society.

“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.

Through service-learning, young people—from kindergarteners to college students—use what they learn in the classroom to solve real-life problems. They not only learn the practical applications of their studies, they become actively contributing citizens and community members through the service they perform”  http://www.servicelearning.org/what-service-learning

Through incorporating service learning, students can still learn the required content and meet curriculum standards, but gain so much more.  Service learning is more than just helping out and learning about volunteer opportunities in the community.  It is directly linked to academic content standards and curriculum.

I find it difficult to focus on service learning in the early elementary grades when we have limited resources to get out into the community.  Though I am looking for new opportunities to integrate it into unit plans that I already have in place.  Next year, in the fall when we work on our systems unit, I plan to walk the students to a local dairy farm to learn about it as a system.  I think that students at an early age need to both connect with their community as well as learn how to care for it.  Possibly, after learning about how we have few dairy farms left in NH, they may want to help spread the word of the community benefits.

Here is my visual understanding of what is important with service learning:

Service Learning Idea Map

 

 More Resources on Service Learning

“Why is Service-Learning Important?

A national study of Learn and Serve America programs suggests that effective service-learning programs improve grades, increase attendance in school, and develop students’ personal and social responsibility. A growing body of research recognizes service-learning as an effective strategy to help students by:

  • Promoting learning through active participation in service experiences;
  • Providing structured time for students to reflect by thinking, discussing and writing about their service experience;
  • Providing an opportunity for students to use skills and knowledge in real-life situations;
  • Extending learning beyond the classroom and into the community; and
  • Fostering a sense of caring for others.”

Source: What is Service Learning?

The Campaign for the Civic Mission of Schools recommends six “proven practices” that, together, constitute well-rounded civic learning. We urge all schools K-16 to adopt these practices, which have been shown by research to provide the most effective and comprehensive approach to ensuring all students receive the civic knowledge and skills necessary for informed and engaged citizenship.


 

Videos:

Learn and Serve America

Links:

Learning By Doing

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