28th Annual Student Research Conference
Service Learning: Experiences beyond the Classroom
Adam G. Hunn* and Caitlyn M. Biberdorf
Dr. Alicia Wodika, Faculty Mentor
Service learning experiences are an integral part of the academic experience. The purpose of this study was to ascertain student attitudes towards their service learning experiences, particularly addressing civic engagement, intercultural knowledge, ethical reasoning, and foundations for life skills. By using a pre and post survey methodology, this study was important as it assists in the continual development of service opportunities to enhance students experiential learning and democratic citizenry. Surveys were distributed to students (n = 75) in six health science courses in Spring 2014. Scores for students decreased for the post test in all areas with the exception of ethical reasoning and intercultural knowledge. A follow up qualitative study was conducted in Spring 2015, where students and community partners were interviewed to better understand the deeper connections between service opportunities with student engagement. Interviews with community partners shed light on the importance of students partnering with their community.
Keywords: Service Learning, Civic Engagement, Health Science
Topic(s):Health Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 7-5
Location: GEO-SUB
Time: 3:30