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From Andrew Furco,“Service-Learning: A Balanced Approach to Experiential Education,” in Expanding Boundaries: Service & Learning (Corporation for National Service, 1996).
A key difference between service-learning and other work, is the
reflection piece that ties the service to the course content. Critical
reflection creates meaningful learning with academic material and civic
responsibility.
What are the benefits of service-learning courses?
For
students, service-learning:
• Increases understanding of the topics covered in the class
• Develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Encourages exploration and clarification of values and beliefs
about the world, and provides opportunities to act on them
• Fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of diverse
cultures and communities
• Develops understanding of social issues facing communities
• Provides valuable work experience (and can even lead to an
internship or a job)
• Develops and/or enhances important skills, especially in
communication, collaboration, and leadership
• Encourages reflection on how to integrate skills, interests, and
values in a career path
• Instills an appreciation of the skills needed for lifelong learning
and civic participation.