Capturing the Experience

Transforming Community Service into Service Learning

Bibliographic Data

ID11062369
AuthorsShirley A Hollis (corresponding author)
Year2002
Volume30
Issue2
Pages200
Publication date2002-04-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueTeaching Sociology (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0092-055X • E-ISSN: 1939-862X
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.2307/3211383
OpenAlexW1988517214
LanguageEN
Citations received25
References cited14

Using a quasi-experimental design, this case study outlines the author's application of specific techniques necessary to implement a service learning component in an introductory sociology class. It also systematically compares the outcomes from two groups of students, one of which was involved in relatively unstructured community work and the other in a structured service learning assignment and examines the benefits experienced from this transformation. Although adding the structure necessary to accomplish effective service learning involved careful preliminary reflection, planning, and coordination, the study suggests that the service learning approach enhances students' development of a sociological orientation and understanding of structural linkages to poverty. It also indicates that students involved in structured service learning may better master course materials than students involved in less-structured community work, as measured by objective examination. Finally, the study supports earlier claims reported in the literature that service learning might be a particularly effective way of improving the efficacy of introductory sociology courses

Business · Pedagogy · Political science · Public relations · Service (business · Service-learning · Sociology · Innovative Teaching Methodologies in Social Sciences · Marketing · Plant and Fungal Interactions Research · Service-Learning and Community Engagement

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