Recent studies have shown that adding a community service learning component helps students learn more effectively. Critical reflection is the key element for relating the meaning of their service to course materials. Community colleges in more than 40 states currently offer service learning to their students as a means of enhancing their education, giving them the opportunity to serve in their chosen field of study, and increasing their sense of civic responsibility. Community colleges are ideal locations for service learning programs because community service is a part of their mission. Math students tutor third-graders in arithmetic.
English students assist in an adult literacy program.
Nursing students provide home health care to the elderly or disabled. Chemistry students and senior citizens educate elementary school students on proper disposal of household hazardous waste. Criminal justice students walk downtown streets in a community policing program. Accounting students help senior citizens with tax returns. Wingspread Principles of Good Practice for Combining Service and Learning An effective program engages people in responsible and challenging actions for the common good.