Service-learning Experience
Service-learning is learning that majorly involves students actively in a broad diversification of experiences, which substantially improve the community and others. Myself, I choose the researched-based sort of service-learning. This is because this type of learning supports experiential education that aids in comprehensive knowledge. Through the activities carried out by tutees, the comprehension of class materials is escalated because it is applied practically. On top of that, with this type of service-learning, students deal with qualitative and quantitative research findings; hence the learning is more accurate and correct.
The topic of my service-learning is inclusion and diversity. An effective service-learning program has a particular format so that education can transpire throughout the whole process. The general guidelines for a successful service-learning are; preparation, then action than reflection, then demonstration, lastly, you celebrate. The central theme mostly is to train the community and other students to maintain equality and promote diversity among themselves.
The solutions to the service-learning I choose are well defined. First, research on how the community is willing to promote diversity and the various ways that can promote diversity. Have a class meeting and a community meeting and carry out a “celebrate diversity” day in the target community, to upskill each other on various groups and cultures and embrace, accept differences among the community members and students. Educate students about equality. Expound and define the importance of tolerance and diversity. I will also explore the ways in with the students, and community members can promote diversity.
I’m planning to work together with USAID. This is because the organization has two complementary linked goals: promotion of diversity and equality, promoting the growth of democratic, resilient communities that able to know their potential through equality and inclusion. With the help of USAID, the service-learning yield impressive results.
References
Flecky, K., & Gitlow, L. (2010). Service-learning in occupational therapy education. Jones & Bartlett Publishers.
Roy, L., Jensen, K., & Meyers, A. H. (Eds.). (2009). Service-learning: Linking library education and practice. American Library Association.