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Definition of Service-Learning
What is Service-Learning?
Service-Learning combines the theoretical and practical learning experiences together. Through performing various voluntary community services, students¡¦ academic study can be reinforced through the process of critical thinking and self-reflection.
The service ranges from knowledge delivery, community development, social and environmental issues tackling, to activities contributing to the well-being of individuals and communities.
The academic study covers a broad spectrum of Lingnan¡¦s disciplines, such as humanities, business administration, social sciences. The programme is fully supported by the faculties¡¦ members; the service activities are carried out by students on a voluntary basis with close cooperation among different stakeholders, including supervisors from social service agency, course instructors and program coordinators. Unlike field studies or internships, Service-Learning requires the active participation of students and it imparts the critical elements of reflection and analysis.
Service-Learning is distinctly different from ¡§community service¡¨ in two significant ways. First, Service-Learning requires students to have basic understanding of the overall mission, structure and governance of the scheme. In addition, students are expected to take an active role in serving the community and possibly gain an appreciation from other sectors. Second, there is a co-operative relationship whereby students learn from the social service agencies and service targets within the community, and in turn students aid the needs of the service targets.
Where and how is Service-Learning practiced?
An increasing number of universities and colleges around the world have been incorporating the concept of Service-Learning into their modes of teaching. These programmes do not conform to one established model; instead they are being adapted to best meet the specific educational needs of each institution and have great flexibility in operation.
While there is no particular pattern for these programmes, Service-Learning is often carried out on a departmental level as an elective course. Service-Learning element may be included as part of the course requirements. It may also be carried out on an inter-disciplinary basis or even as a mode of independent study.
The establishment of OSL offers a real-life opportunity for students to apply the knowledge and skills learnt into the practice, to contribute to the community. Students¡¦ personal growth, self-fulfillment and satisfaction are expected to be enhanced upon completing the S-L programme.
All these have been designed to develop students¡¦ motivation and cultivate their life skills by assisting the needy actively, including the elderly, high-risk youth, ethnic minorities, migrant workers and people with specific medical demand.
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