Service-learning
differs from community service or volunteerism in two distinct ways:
1. The service activity is integrated with academic curriculum and content.
2. Students engage in structured reflection of their service experiences and apply their learning in real-life experiences.
(adapted from"Service-Learning: An Essential Component of Citizenship Education," NCSS Position Statement 2000)
Service-Learning
as described by the
National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993:
- Helps students learn and develop by participating in thoughtfully organized service that is conducted in and meets the needs of communities;
- Is coordinated with an elementary school, secondary school, institution of higher education or community-service program with the community
- Helps foster civic responsibility;
- Is integrated into and enhances students' academic curriculum or the education components of the community-service program in which the participants are enrolled; and
- Provides structured time for students or other participants to reflect on the service.