about service learning...

To be honest, while I started reading this article, I realized that I wasn't really sure of what exactly the definition of a service learning project was. So, I looked it up and the first result on Google came from Vanderbilt University who cited the definition from the National Service Learning Clearing House as “a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.” So basically it involves performing community service and then analyzing what you've learned from it, which is what we're doing in this class.

This video from Cleveland State Community College gives an overview of service learning and the positive effects it has on college students and the community they serve. One professor even points out that in the classroom you can only simulate real world situations so much and going out and serving the community gives the student a deeper learning experience from actually working and doing something good. Personally, I would have liked a little more flexibility in this class's service learning project since I've been having some transportation issues lately, but I still enjoy going to my classroom in Providence and working with these third grade kids.