Goals of Service Learning

Because service learning is a diverse field, there are many goals associated with service learning, depending on the field and the teacher. Even the focus of service learning is not universal, with some practitioners focusing on the service aspect, while others focus on the educational aspect. Below are a few ways to view the goals of Service Learning

Technical Perspective
One of the most basic goals of service learning is to provide students with hands on experience. From the technical perspective, service learning is used to enhance classroom activity. Scholars in this field hope to tie service learning to improved performance in other areas of academic life. They see service learning as another legitimate teaching practice worthy of the same respect and scrutiny as any other methodology.

Cultural Perspective
Another goal of service learning is to increase the social awareness of students and expose them to social classes they are not normally exposed to. By making students become active members in the community, Service Learning seeks to strengthen society at large. Scholars in this field see Service Learning as a way to promote social welfare, tolerence for others, volunteerism, and civic engagement.

Political Perspective
Because service learning takes place in the public sphere, some scholars see increasing political participation and awareness as a major goal of service learning. They see these activities as crucial ways to make students more engaged, thoughtful citizens. They also see it as a way to expose students to different morals and beliefs from ones they may be exposed to at home or in the classrooms. From the political perspective, service learning is about training responsible citizens for democracy.

Antifoundational Perspective
Antifoundationalists believe that service learning is meant to introduce students to forms of injustice in society. By exposing students to those in need, service learning makes students question their most basic assumptions about fairness in society. Students are asked to question why injustice exist and to learn about political system so they can make positive change. From the antifoundational perspective, service learning is meant to encourage students to become agents of change.

NCES Survey
The NCESsurveyed secondary school teachers, asking them why they participated in service education. Here is a chart of their responses.