Service Learning: Teaching Good Character through Action

What is Service Learning?

Laurel Singleton, editor of Service Learning in the Middle School Curriculum: A Resource Book, published by the Social Science Education Consortium (SSEC), defines Service Learning as:

"...a teaching method that combines academic content with direct service experiences in which students provide genuine service to their school or community while extending or deepening their understanding of curricular content."

A teacher facilitates Service Learning by linking curriculum content with community service.  For example, a third grade instructor teaching a unit on recycling may enlist her students to create cloth grocery bags and offer them to community members; a high school drama instructor may require her students to work after school and teach disadvantaged children basic drama skills; or a middle school mathematics instructor may require students to offer one hour of tutoring every week for students in lower grades.  There are countless examples.

Service learning is not confined to the classroom, however.  Parents, club leaders and religious educators can also use service learning as a way to deepen understanding of academic and religious concepts while encouraging greater responsibility within children.  For example, parents concerned about kind treatment of animals may take their children to an animal shelter every week and work as a family to bathe and care for the abandoned cats and dogs; or a religious instructor teaching the importance of love may help her class host an Easter party at a senior citizen home.

Simply stated, Service Learning is teaching children the value of service while deepening their understanding of key concepts.  It is learning in ACTION.



Service Learning Ideas for Parents:

Here are just two ideas.  The possibilities are endless!

TEACH THE VIRTUE OF EMPATHY AND LOVE: Compile a list of names and birth-dates of children who are enduring extended stays in the local hospital. Design personalized "get well cards" for them, have a gift drive, and put on birthday parties for them. If possible, have your children choose and invite a sports star, a celebrity, or a clown to attend the party.

TEACH THE IMPORTANCE OF RESPECT FOR THE ELDERLY: Have your children interview senior citizens about the history of their community and about their lives. Have the students then create a nicely designed book, video, or a recording of the oral history that they can give to the senior citizens, who in turn can share it with their children and grandchildren and pass it on to their families.



Helpful Web Sites:

http://www.dosomething.org

http://www.servicelearning.org

http://www.nylc.org/

 

What activities have you done as a parent, teacher or community leader to link learning with community service?

We want to hear your ideas!