Service Learning
Service learning 101
UW-Extension defines service learning as "an educational strategy that combines service to the community with learning activities to meet both intellectual and civic objectives." Within UW-Extension, service-learning takes place in programs in youth development, continuing education, and community and economic development. Many UW-Extension faculty and staff also partner with service learning students and faculty from UW Colleges campuses and other schools in activities such as community-based research. (Learn more about at Why Service Learning?.)
There are many other definitions of service learning. Here are a few to explore:
- National Campus Compact Definitions
- National Service-Learning Clearinghouse Definitions
- Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction 4-point test
Service learning is similar to, but yet distinct from volunteerism, community service, and community-based learning. This is how John de Montmollin, Kenosha County UW-Extension, compares and contrasts these ideas:
- UW-Extension Service Matrix
- Developed by John J. de Montmollin, 4-H Youth Development, Kenosha County Cooperative Extension