Service-Learning
Service-Learning 101
At a broad glance
Service-Learning is a tool used within UW Colleges and UW-Extension to both enhance learning and strengthen communities.
How does this differ than volunteering?
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
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 within UW-Extension
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. To learn more about possible ideas, please visit models of collaboration.
To learn more about UW-Extension colleagues and staff involved with Service-earning, please visit UW-Extension Service-Learning Success Stories.
Service-Learning within UW Colleges
In the UW Colleges, and as defined by the National Service-Learning Clearinghouse as, Service-Learning is "a teaching and learning approach that integrates community service with academic study to enrich learning, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities."(http://www.servicelearning.org)
Many UW Colleges faculty and staff partner with UW-Extension colleagues to develop Service-Learning partnerships. To learn more about possible ideas, please visit models of collaboration.
To learn more about UW Colleges faculty and staff statewide involvement and to explore ideas for your own course, visit UW Colleges course models.