Service-learning is an educational approach that combines learning objectives with community service to provide a pragmatic, progressive learning experience while meeting societal needs. It involves students in service projects to apply classroom learning for local agencies that exist to effect positive change in the community. Service-learning is a form of experiential learning where students apply academic knowledge and critical thinking skills to address genuine community needs.

Here are some key elements of service-learning:

• Learning objectives: Service-learning combines learning objectives with community service to provide a pragmatic, progressive learning experience while meeting societal needs.

• Community service: Service-learning involves students in service projects to apply classroom learning for local agencies that exist to effect positive change in the community.

• Reflection: Service-learning includes structured reflection linking experience to learning. Reflection is an important aspect of cultivating social responsibility and developing citizenship skills.

• Curriculum: Service-learning is a natural part of the curriculum that extends into the community. It can be incorporated into any discipline.

• Assessment: Multiple stakeholders assess students in service-learning.

Service-learning is important because it connects student learning in the classroom with real-world experiences in the community. Students who participate in it are more deeply engaged in their local communities, gain practical skills, develop their career and personal interests, and are usually more engaged citizens.