Service learning is a teaching methodology that enriches instruction by providing thoughtfully designed opportunities for learners to use their skills and knowledge in service to and with the community.  Service learning meets students' varied academic/learning needs and develops skills and abilities in problem-solving, decision-making, critical analysis, group process and team building. Service learning also builds new partnerships between the school and the community that support student learning and increases community involvement. Service learning is integrated into the academic curriculum and is a blending of both service and learning goals in such a way that both occur at the same time and are enriched and supported by one another.

The essential components of the service learning model are preparation, service, reflection/evaluation and celebration/recognition. Examples of service learning projects include cross age tutoring programs with at-risk students as tutors and tutees, community garden projects with learners and community partners, inter-generational programs with an integrated reading and writing component to develop student literacy, and community history projects where students utilize primary sources to establish and maintain relationships with the older community.

With the Volunteer Center's relationship with the nonprofit community, educators and students have access to a multitude of community agencies serving North Texas. Volunteer PowerCrew provides free trainings for educators utilizing a specially developed service learning curriculum.  Volunteer Center staff can also develop a variety of age appropriate service learning models.

Click here for information on upcoming service learning trainings.

Related Service Learning Links (pdf format):

Idea's for the younger volunteer

Service Learning Activities for High School Students

Service Learning Activities for Middle School Students

Seven elements to high quality service learning

Sample service learning lesson plan