Service Learning - What It Is

Service-Learning is an experimental education approach grounded in the concept or idea of "reciprocal learning." The concept of reciprocal learning refers to the ideas that learning flows from service activities. In other words, those who provide service and those who receive it "learn" from experience. Service-Learning is only fully realized when both the providers and recipients of a service benefit from the activities. "Service-Learning" occurs when there is a balance between learning goals and service outcomes (Sigmon, 1979).

The College of Health, Education, and Human Resources was established in 1987 in response to the unique needs of students preparing to enter directly into a variety of professional fields. Our college was renamed The Panuska College of Professional Studies on June 1, 1998 to reflect the outstanding achievements of our former President Father Panuska. Our programs of study require students to not only look at their chosen field of study, but also the world around them. The Service-Learning program was implemented in the Fall of 1994. Service-Learning is a central component to a students education in a professional field. The opportunities to share ones talent with the community benefit not only the recipient but also have an impact on professional growth.

The Panuska College of Professional Studies, in keeping with the mission of this University, is committed to a program of service-learning, which provides a link between community service and academic study. Students learn and develop by participating in thoughtfully organized service that is conducted in and meets the needs of the community. Service learning is integrated into and enhances students' academic curriculum by providing structured time for students to reflect on their service experience. The service experience is an effective strategy for achieving enrichment and introducing the student to the academic, social and civic needs of diverse groups of people. Through this program, students in the Panuska College of Professional Studies complete service-learning experiences as a requirement for graduation.