Research on service learning spanning the last three decades has revealed that service learning facilitates the development of leadership skills, self esteem, teamwork, communication skills, and acceptance of cultural diversity. Perhaps the most difficult arena has been the area of intellectual, cognitive, and academic efforts. A study…

This issue of "Service-Learning Network" looks at how the arts skills strengthen interdisciplinary learning and reach beyond the classroom to form meaningful connections between students, the curriculum, and service-learning communities. Articles include "Art and Service Learning: Connection within a Community of Shared Experience" (Sarah Graham…

The written works and experiences of Kurt Hahn and Robert Greenleaf are examined to illustrate their roles in developing the service ethic concepts -- the samaritan-ethic (Hahn) and service-learning (Greenleaf). (BRR)

Kids Voting USA is a grass roots, community-driven voter education program. A Kids Voting community must mobilize corporate sponsors, election officials, media representatives, and administrative staff to print curricula, train teachers, prepare students, welcome them to polling precincts, and count and report their votes. Children become…

Compares community education and service learning; outlines contributions of service learning to the skills identified by the Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills. A chart identifies which states have the following: community education plans and associations; service learning and community education in the same state agency; and…

Journals and a survey of 93 nursing students involved in community engagement through service learning projects indicated that 90.9% agreed service learning helped their understanding of the community role; 72.8% felt service learning enhanced course learning; only 54.6% said service learning influenced career plans or goals. (Contains 15…

Spirituality has long been associated with public service, but is it a key ingredient? The author argues that it is and that higher education is missing a critical opportunity by not helping students understand the spiritual aspects of serving others. (Contains 12 references.) (GCP)

Discusses how service learning can play an integral role in reclaiming youth. Advocates service learning as an effective part of the reclaiming process because it engages a variety of senses and makes learning more accessible for students with different learning styles. (GCP)

Examined whether service-learning projects performed by preservice teachers help them apply educational theory in classroom practice during field experiences and as in-service teachers. Found that: (1) preservice teachers should perform service-learning projects prior to other education courses; (2) participation in service-learning projects…

Sought to describe the growth of 94 nursing students' critical thinking through service-learning experiences. Results revealed two major themes: development of both professional and community perspectives. (EV)

Presents tools to assist students with reflection on service learning: Kolb's experiential learning cycle, role playing, journal writing, and a map for planning reflection activities before, during, and after service. (SK)

Nursing graduate students (n=79) conducted a variety of community engagement through service learning projects. Qualitative and quantitative analyses indicated that students were exposed to low-income populations and increased their knowledge of health issues and the relationship between socioeconomic status and health. (Contains 13 references.)…

Graduate and undergraduate gerontology students teamed to design and implement intergenerational service-learning projects. A weekly critical incident questionnaire gathered data on team development, collaboration, and learning. Students (n=17) considered team process the high point of the class; learning emerged through struggles with the…

Explains the Bookends program, which combats a community's lack of books for its children. Describes how this grassroots nonprofit organization collects books for schools and youth organizations that either do not have operating libraries or have libraries that are so depleted that they cannot adequately provide all of their children with books to…

Service learning outcomes for students include personal/social development, improved achievement and civic responsibility, and career awareness. The impact of service learning can be heightened by implementing explicit links to curriculum and greater student responsibility and choice. (Contains 31 references.) (SK)