This book is intended as a self-directed guide for college-level students who are engaged in service-learning.
Though addressed principally to students participating in service-learning as a class, it is also suitable for
students working individually.
The authors' goals are to enable the reader to derive the greatest benefit from the experience - in terms of providing
meaningful service to the community partner, developing his or her skills and knowledge, and connecting back what
she or he learns to course objectives and the framework of their discipline.
Service-learning requires students to take on new roles and to pursue learning in ways fundamentally different
from traditional courses. This book begins by setting the context, explaining the differences between service and
volunteerism and linking service-learning to the larger issues of citizenship and democracy. It then provides activities,
exercises and other resources to develop students' skills of reflection, teamwork and cultural competence; and
to help them plan, work with community partners, exercise leadership and manage change. The authors provide a framework
for students to assess their progress and communicate final results to all stakeholders.
By linking service-learning to the learning goals of the student's course, this workbook constitutes the ideal
companion to disciplinary course readings. It is equally suitable for courses of a few weeks' or a few months'
duration. The exercises can be undertaken by the students by themselves, or together with their peers, and can
be incorporated as class activities by the teacher. This succinct and conversationally-written guide will engage
and motivateyour students while developing the skills to succeed in their service-learning.