Steps to a Meaningful Service-Learning Experience

Adapted from Boise State University

Preparation

• Evaluate whether your needs can relate to the learning objectives of a class.

• Register your agency on the service-learning website.

• Design a thorough position description for the students.

• Schedule dates for orientation and service, including dates, times and location.

• Discuss the service-learning partnership with your faculty partner.

Action

• Review and sign the service-learning agreement with the student (student will bring it to the orientation).

• Orient the students to the agency, the clients, the community need, the service work, the staff and the connection with their class.

• Help students understand the community issue your organization addresses.  Provide background information (fact sheet, article, etc.).

• Assist service-learners to begin service by setting a start date. Help the student feel comfortable in your agency and prepared to learn and work.

Reflection

• Check-in with students to help the process their experiences at your agency.  You might find their responses interesting.  Some examples of reflection questions include:

  • Do you feel like you are making a difference?  How?

  • Has this experience changed the way you view the issue?

  • How does this relate to your coursework?

  • How is this experience affecting you?

Evaluation

• Solicit feedback from the service-learners and staff.

• Critically evaluate the endeavor.  Did the service meet a critical needs?  Did participants learn from the experience and value it?  Did your organization benefit?

• Consider what you might do differently next time.  Contact the service-learning staff to suggest how they can be more helpful to you and your agency.

Celebration

• Recognize the service-learners' efforts, as well as the efforts of those at our agency who helped the students learn.  This is also a wonderful opportunity to invite students to continue working with your agency.

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