Clinton School student Leslie Harris (’13) partnered with the University of Arkansas Center for Community Engagement to assess the status of service learning at benchmark universities and develop a plan for campus-wide service learning.
Harris found that most benchmark universities have already developed campus-wide service learning efforts, while only a handful of service learning courses are currently available at the University of Arkansas. She also conducted in-depth secondary research about the effectiveness of service learning and successful service learning models.
Service learning is a teaching method that combines classroom learning with purposeful community service and student reflection. Service learning allows students to apply what they are learning by partnering with organizations to meet community needs.
“The university has shown a strong commitment to community service, and we hope to see that commitment expanded into students’ academic work, as well,” said Angela Oxford, director of the Center for Community Engagement. “The university has expressed interest in growing service learning at our campus, and Harris’ research and recommendations can serve as a tremendous resource as the administration makes plans to develop an institutionally supported service learning program at the University of Arkansas.”
Research has shown that students engaged in service learning experience an increase in academic learning, a stronger sense of social responsibility and citizenship, a greater cultural understanding, improved career development and increased community involvement after graduation.
Harris’ report will be used as a springboard for the university’s effort to establish service learning across campus. If adopted, her recommendations will lead to opportunities such as a Service Learning Scholars program for faculty and a Service Learning Certificate program for students.
“As a student at the Clinton School, I have been immersed in service learning through our field projects, and I have experienced the benefits of this teaching method firsthand,” said Harris. “I hope my research will lead to more students getting the opportunity to apply their learning while making a positive impact on local communities.”
The Center for Community Engagement promotes civic engagement and leadership by connecting University of Arkansas students, faculty, and staff with non-profit organizations in Northwest Arkansas. It works to cultivate students’ strengths, facilitate student learning to identify societal needs and empower students to create solutions to those needs through service.
Harris completed the project as part of the Clinton School Capstone program, the last of three public service projects in the Master of Public Service degree program.
About the University of Arkansas Center for Community Engagement
The University of Arkansas Center for Community Engagement works with students through ongoing opportunities, community partnerships, and service events. Its mission is empowering students through service to change the world.”
More information about the Center for Community Engagement is available at www.volunteer.uark.edu.
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