Dissertation writing help - Effects of best practices in innovative liberal arts courses
I need Custom Dissertation Writing Service on Impact of service-learning.
Service-learning is a pedagogy that has increasingly gained acceptance in higher education (Eyler & Giles, 1999) as institutions are stressing that educating students includes creating socially responsible citizens. No less noteworthy, many universities are utilizing service-learning in an attempt to connect with their surrounding communities by engaging students in broader social issues. In brief, service-learning connects community service to academic learning through structured volunteer opportunities and active reflection (Sigmon, 1979). Although past research points to increased student learning and skill development as well as changes in student attitudes and values, further study is necessary to enhance our understanding of service-learning outcomes. To address these research gaps, I conducted a qualitative study using interview and observation methods to develop a grounded theory on the effects of service-learning. My findings indicated that students develop richer and broader understanding of the course content and greater awareness of community issues and organizations. I also found that students developed academic and personal skills, including critical thinking and ability to take initiative. Moreover, I found that students increased their value of community involvement in their personal and professional lives. Not least, students' attitudes toward their role as a volunteer, the effectiveness of service, and people of diverse backgrounds were affected. The findings have implications for those practicing and researching in the field of service-learning because they flesh out and illuminate the benefits of the pedagogy.