2009/2010 AmeriCorps
The Impact of Service-Learning:A Review of Current Research
Research studies of service-learning, an educational method that intentionally connects community service to classroom learning, demonstrate that service-learning programs can have positive impacts on youth in three general areas: academic engagement and achievement; civic attitudes and behaviors; and social and personal skills. The studies also demonstrate that students gain the
maximum benefit when their service-learning experience includes a direct tie to the curriculum, planning and design of service projects by students, structured reflection on the service experience in the classroom, and continuity of service for at least one semester. This issue brief offers some of the most compelling evidence to date on how service-learning positively affects youth. (NOTE: For a complete bibliography of works cited in this brief, go to http://www.nationalservice.gov/pdf/slresearchreview.pdf
