Educational action research bridges the gap between theory and practice; where the learning design is the proposed hypothesis and the classroom is where it is field-tested by the teacher as researcher (McKernan, 2007; Stenhouse, 1975). Through this lens we see inquiry as a deepened understanding of one's own practice. The purpose of this study was…

Learning is enhanced with repetition, either through more exercises in individual courses, or through the integration of concepts in a capstone experience. A well planned and integrated curriculum can utilize a capstone course, not only to provide a service learning component, but also as an opportunity to refresh students on key discipline topics…

This article addresses the issue of the theory-practice divide in pre-service teacher education from the viewpoint of design-based research (DBR). Using the example of a course in service learning (SL), the authors discuss their reflection on a curriculum that failed to help the students convert declarative knowledge to procedures of pedagogy, or…

Mark Van Doren, the noted literary scholar, once remarked, "The college is meaningless without a curriculum, but it is more so when it has one that is meaningless." Many current critics of undergraduate curricula in America assent to the crucial need for programmatic renewal in our colleges and universities. They bemoan the cookie-cutter…

Describes the writing program at Pepperdine University, where some of the composition sections incorporate a service learning component. Makes a case for service learning as a productive space in a composition course. (TB)

The product of faculty, staff, and students from 10 exemplary programs in service learning at selected liberal arts colleges across the country, this collection of essays addresses vital issues in liberal learning and education for community. The collection's focus is the creation of educational goals and strategies for developing a service…