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One of the fastest growing educational initiatives sweeping our nation's schools is Service Learning. It is an approach that moves beyond the concept of "community service" to a higher, more academically-integrated type of instructional practice.
Through Service Learning, a comprehensive community-based experience unfolds. Students take responsibility to choose topics, develop plans and engage in meaningful community action. An essential part of this process involves student "reflection" which clearly sets it apart from the more traditional community service approach. This community-based learning is motivational and highly rewarding.
Service Learning integrates academic curriculum, consistent with higher standards, with a strong character education component. Students learn how to apply their academic skills, while at the same time becoming contributory members of our society.
Visit secondary schools, teachers, community leaders and settings (projects dealing with the homeless and community environments) throughout the United States as teachers and students develop Service Learning projects that promote academic, social and civic responsibility.
No longer is community involvement done at the expense of academic instruction. In fact, service in the community provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate and practice skills directly related to their core curriculum.
This video will provide essential information to help educators develop Service Learning experiences in their schools. A practical and valuable staff development resource for teachers and administrators committed to higher standards through authentic, community-based instruction.
The viewer will:
- Understand the basic components of a service learning program
- Recognize the relationship between the core academic curriculum and community service that is the basis for service learning
- Observe service learning programs where students demonstrate and practice skills in the community, that are directly related to their core curriculum
- Receive essential information that will assist in the development of a service learning program within the schools
- Identify ways in which students, schools and the community all benefit from the collaboration of service learning programs
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