Project-Based Service Learning to Foster Academic Growth

“The essence of education is not to stuff you with facts but to help you discover your uniqueness, to teach you how to develop it, and then to show you how to give it away.” -Leo Buscaglia

As schools prepare students for an ever-changing world, educators need to consider how to provide the foundational academic, social-emotional and critical thinking skills that will help them thrive in adulthood and become productive, caring citizens. These skills develop in the classroom, and can be practiced and woven together through real-world learning experiences. The process of service learning—a powerful, experiential teaching and learning strategy that integrates social action with classroom content can offer real-life opportunities to practice these essential skills.

This workshop explores the methodology of service learning as a framework for embarking on youth-driven social action that is authentically embedded within classroom curriculum. Unit examples and curriculum resources will be shared, allowing participants to see this form of project-based learning in action. Throughout the workshop, a hands-on approach to exploring the concepts of service learning will be provided alongside the theories presented. Participants will begin by exploring student-centered learning strategies and how this practice helps establish a culture conducive to service learning. Then, educators will practice utilizing curriculum tools transferable to the classroom that develop opportunities for students to engage in their community while simultaneously enhancing their academic learning. Come explore how to inspire and empower students to make meaningful change in their world!

Workshop activities guide participants to:

• Consider the academic and social emotional skills embedded within service learning that promote students’ personal growth and critical thinking
• Discover a variety of different entry points to the service learning process to help it authentically connect to existing classroom content and academic goals
• Explore ways to let students take the lead on discovering authentic needs within their school, local or global community
• Develop action plans that utilize best practices in service learning to fuel student service experiences

This workshop is suited for K-12 educators and administrators of any experience level. Bring multiple members of your teaching team to engage in service learning curriculum design and lesson planning specific to your academic goals!