How Service-Learning Experiences Promote the University's Strategic Mission

Authors

  • Beth Rajan Sockman East Stroudsburg University Author
  • Olivia M. Carducci East Stroudsburg University Author
  • Laurene Clossey East Stroudsburg University Author
  • LuAnn Batson-Magnuson East Stroudsburg University Author
  • Gene White East Stroudsburg University Author
  • Adrian Wehmeyer East Stroudsburg University Author
  • Holly Wells East Stroudsburg University Author
  • Grant Rauch East Stroudsburg University Author

Abstract

Instructors from five disciplines implemented content-specific service projects and determined students' perceptions of their experience. An action research framework was used to examine the experiences and to analyze data in customizable pre- and post-service-learning surveys. Although the students' experiences differed greatly, results showed that undergraduate and graduate students had remarkably consistent positive perceptions that aligned closely with the university's mission. Unique to this study, qualitative data revealed that students had a newfound understanding of their specific discipline's value as it related to the community. The study showed the inherent importance of service-learning experiences across content areas.

Published

2024-04-25