Symposium on Service-Learning

In the ever-changing landscape of higher education, institutions of higher learning have become increasingly woven within the fabric of the communities in which they reside. In recent years, “universities have evidenced an increasing willingness to become actively engaged with communities, and to use those communities to enhance the learning experiences of students” (Bryant & West, 2006). Thus, we as practitioners and scholars are called upon to immerse college and university students in their communities, with the dual purpose of having a positive impact on the community and the students themselves. Service-learning in particular “enables colleges and universities to meet their goals for student learning and development while making unique contributions to addressing community needs” (CAS Standards, 2009). This focus on reciprocity – mutual benefit to students and the community – and on reflective practice make service-learning an unparalleled opportunity to engage students in powerful community-based learning experiences. Through service-learning, students develop deeper knowledge of human and community needs, immerse themselves in meaningful ways in the community, and engage in critical reflection that provides context for their experience. If well-executed, service-learning experiences can be highly transformative, developing students as active citizens and leaders of social change.