Under which students learn and develop through active participation in thoughtfully organized service experiences that meet actual community needs and that are coordinated in collaboration with school and community; That are integrated into the students‘ academic curriculum or provide structured time for a student to think, talk, or write about what the student did and saw during the actual service activity; That provides students with opportunities to use newly-acquired skills and knowledge in real-life situations in their own communities; and That enhance what is taught by extending student learning beyond the classroom and into the community and helps to foster the development of a sense of caring for others. SERVICE-LEARNING BENEFITS Service-Learning benefits students by
Linking theory to practice
Deepening understanding of course materials
Enhancing the sense of civic responsibility through civic engagement
Allowing students to explore possible career paths
Stressing the importance of improving the human condition
Developing relevant career-related skills
Providing experience in group work and interpersonal communication
Promoting interaction with people from diverse backgrounds
Instilling a sense of empowerment that enhances self-esteem Service-Learning benefits faculty by
Providing exciting new ways to teach familiar material
Offering professional development challenges
Engaging faculty in meaningful interactions with the community at large
Encouraging faculty to form close, interactive, mentoring relationships with students
Reminding faculty of the direct consequences of their teaching for society
Connecting faculty across academic disciplines through a shared approach to teaching and learning process.