Group items tagged

Abstract: Purpose: This exploratory study attempts to capture some of the principal benefits/factors attributable to service learning/community service projects, from a student perspective. Design/methodology/approach: A sample of 67 males and 83 females (16 graduate, 71 seniors, and 63 juniors) participated in the study. Findings: Students believe that their college experience is preparing them for the job market, that critical thinking has been enhanced, and that their college academic experience has emphasized community service upon graduation. Practical implications: The results increase one's knowledge of the benefits of service learning since so much emphasis is currently being placed on improving the critical thinking and problem-solving ability of undergraduate business students. Originality/value: Practitioners would be interested in understanding the impact that service learning can have on the problem-solving ability of potential employees. If additional research could advance the proposition that students with service learning experience are generally superior in terms of their problem-solving skills to students with no similar experience, then evidence of a service learning component on a student resume suddenly adds value to the employer. (Contains 1 figure and 5 tables.)

Abstract: Service-learning (SL) is a relatively new pedagogical approach to facilitate student learning at the university level. In SL, students enrolled in an academic course provide a needed service to a community partner. Through guided reflection, students link classroom-based, theoretical knowledge with clinical applications. Students' active engagement in learning facilitates thinking critically, questioning assumptions, considering varying perspectives, and appreciating the civic purpose of their profession. This article describes three SL applications, in dysphagia, educational audiology, and augmentative and alternative communication. We explain the rationale for each, along with ways in which to measure the effects of SL on student learning.

Abstract: The article reports on the study by the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) which identifies several innovative and high-impact practices gaining attention in higher education in the U.S. It reviews four practices, including first-year seminars, learning communities, service learning and undergraduate research. It reveals that students who participate in the practices consistently persist at a higher rate than those who do not. It also shows the practices result in higher rates of faculty and peer interaction, increased critical thinking and writing skills, and higher levels of engagement.

Website for IUPUI that outlines services projects (past, present and upcoming) at the university.