What is Service-Learning?

Service-Learning at Boise State

What is Service-Learning?

Service-Learning is a teaching strategy that integrates course content with relevant community service. Through assignments and class discussions, students critically reflect on the service in order to increase their understanding of course content, gain a broader appreciation of the discipline, and enhance their sense of civic responsibility.
– adapted from the National and Community Service Trust Act

Definitions of Service-Learning: Basic definitions of Service-Learning
Activities that Qualify as Service-Learning at Boise State University
Examples & Snapshots of Service-Learning: Service-Learning examples and ideas
Types of Service-Learning: A range of client contact and project-based service
Course formats: Optional, required, or 1 credit “SL Lab”
Internships vs. Service-Learning : Their primary purposes differ.

How does it work?

Faculty members collaborate with community partners to provide experiences that enhance student learning while meeting a community need. Service-Learning (SL) staff provide support before, during, and after the semester.

Best Practices for Service-Learning: Evidence-based practices to promote success
Roles & responsibilities: Who does what?
Support services for participants: SL staff is here to help
Timelines and deadlines for Service-Learning
Risk & safety for Service-Learning: Tips, forms, and policies
What the research says about the effects of Service-Learning and community-engaged learning

Why do it?

Service-Learning impacts the community, students, faculty, and beyond. It is grounded in theory and research.

Benefits of Service- Learning: Some benefits are immediate, and others are long-term, deep, and far-ranging
Theoretical Foundations of Service-Learning: From Dewey to Friere, SL is grounded in academic theory
Lenses of Service-Learning: People get involved with SL for a variety of reasons: technical, cultural, political, or post-modern