Service-Learning Contract, (A): Clarity, Commitment, and Completion

The article discusses the components of a student-agency contract and how it is applied in service learning situations. Bussler stresses the necessity of student and agency sharing the same understandings of the concepts of volunteerism, community service, service, and service-learning. The contract must be clear about the agency mission, student educational ends to be achieved, and the identification of student skills/talents/interests. The contract must clearly state level of student commitment and how the service learning project will be completed through a communication plan, description of how problems are to be resolved, and the supervisor evaluation. An example of a service learning contract form is included. (SH)