Minnesota K-12 Service Learning Talking Points

 

- service learning is -

Service learning is a form of experiential learning whereby students apply content knowledge, critical thinking and good judgment to address genuine community needs. ¹

 

- service learning increases academic knowledge -

Research says: Service learning helps students acquire academic skills and knowledge. Students who participate in service learning are more engaged in their studies and more motivated to learn. Service learning is associated with increased student attendance.²

Messages:

• Service learning is an academically challenging way to gain knowledge in any subject area—including core math, English and social studies curricula.

• Service learning is constructed in a partnership between the student, teacher and community.
• Service learning is flexible and able to address individual learning styles.

• Service learning is a different way to teach and learn—it is more effective, exciting and engaging.

 

- service learning creates better citizens -

Research says: Service learning helps to develop students’ sense of civic and social responsibility and their citizenship skills. Service learning provides opportunities for students to become active, positive contributors to society.²

Messages:

• Service learning benefits students and addresses real community needs—simultaneously.
• Service learning provides the context in which students can gain skills necessary to succeed in learning, work and community.
• Service learning allows students to take on increasingly complex leadership roles in the community by showing them that they can and should make a difference.
• Service learning helps students learn how to solve real life problems.

 

- service learning aids in personal development -

Research says: Service learning has a positive effect on the personal development of youth. Students who participate in service learning are less likely to engage in “risk” behaviors. Service learning has a positive effect on students’ interpersonal development and the ability to relate to culturally diverse groups. Service learning helps students to become more knowledgeable and realistic about careers. Service learning results in greater mutual respect between teachers and students.²

Messages:

• Service learning helps teach students responsibility.
• Service learning helps teach students how to get along with others.
• Service learning allows students to relate knowledge to their personal lives.

 

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¹ Minnesota Department of Education

² Billig, Shelley H. “The Impacts of Service-Learning on Youth, Schools and Communities: Research on K-12 School-Based Service-Learning, 1990–1999.” Denver, Colorado: 2000.

 

Portions summarized from:

W.K. Kellogg Foundation. “Perceptions: Understanding and Responding to What People Think about Service-Learning.” Washington D.C.: 2000.

Toole, Pamela, Ph.D., Ed. “Essential Elements of Service-Learning.” Roseville, Minnesota: 1999.