Theoretical Roots of Service Learning in John Dewey: Toward a Theory of Service Learning

As interest service-learning research multiples, there is a concomitant need for a theoretical base for service-learning. In this article the authors review aspects of John Dewey's educational and social philosophy that they identify as relevant to the development of a theory of service-learning including learning from experience, reflective activity, citizenship, community, and democracy. The article concludes with a set of key questions for research and theory development.