Spend Some Time

In the Service of What? - Kahne Westheimer (Extended Comments)

          For this post, I chose to comment about Vanessa's blog post. 

Vanessa's first quote is about the educational experience that service learning can allow students to have.  If the students "engage in critical thinking", they will be able to have a strong sense of themselves and can appreciate those who are less fortunate.  I feel like this quote also explains the reasons that we reflect on our service learning project, which allows us to critically observe what works and what doesn't in our own experience.  

The second quote is about the benefits that service learning can have on individuals.  As Vanessa points out, it is important to acknowledge the reasons and motivations that students have when completing service learning.  It would be a useless project, if the students only did what they were told, rather than wanting to help their community, and make connections with those people they help.  While no student should expect to literally rewarded (ex. money), it is important to learn the process of getting your name out, and that the people you help may be willing to do you a favor in the future.  

Vanessa's last quote shows the way that educators feel about service learning.  These educators have brought service learning into their classrooms, and have witnessed the inspiring experiences. In our own service learning project, it is clear to see how we are impacting students who need extra attention in the classroom.  This is where we are putting our names out there and gaining resources that may help us in the future.  This project is also allowing us to experience our future occupation, and gain important experiences for our future endeavors.  The bottom line is that service learning projects are important for the students who participate as well as those who benefit in the community.  It is great to have the sense of accomplishment and knowing that you are making a difference in your community.