Participation in service-learning courses has always been considered a part of the informal education in tertiary education worldwide. Originating from the assumption that service-learning courses increase students' civic engagement and bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, service-learning courses have gradually acquired the status of…

Describes a 30-week program at Michigan State University in which undergraduates gain experience and knowledge mainly by communicating with young children through weekly play encounters. Observation and discussion of videotapes, and lecture and discussion classes are also part of the teacher training program. (ED)