Servicing Learning is a teaching and learning strategy through which students learn and develop by designing, organizing and participating in meaningful service experiences that:

• Meet actual community needs
• Coordinate in collaboration with Dalton State College and the community 
• Integrate into the students' academic curriculum
• Provide structured time for thinking, writing and talking about what is seen and done in the service-learning process
• Enhance what is taught in the classroom by providing opportunities for students to apply new academic knowledge and skills in real life situations in their own communities
• Help foster the development of a sense of caring for others

The 4 essential components of the effective service-learning model are preparation, service, reflection/evaluation and celebration/recognition.  Through Service Learning, students gain:

• Personal Growth and Development
• Self-esteem
• Personal efficacy and sense of responsibility
• Moral development and reinforced values and beliefs
• Exploration of new roles, identities, and interests
• Willingness to take risks and accept new challenges
• Intellectual Development and Academic Learning
• Basic skills, including expressing ideas, reading and calculating
• Higher level thinking skills, such as problem-solving and critical thinking
• Skills and issues specific to service experience
• Motivation to learn
• Learning skills, including observation, inquiry, and application of knowledge
• Insight, judgment, and understanding
• Social Growth and Development:
• Social responsibility and concern for others
• Political efficacy
• Civic participation
• Knowledge and exploration of service-related careers
• Understanding and appreciation of, and ability to relate to, people from a wide range of backgrounds and life situations (Conrad and Hedin, 1989)
  

Service Learning Application (PDF >>)

Service Learning Time Log (PDF >>)