Combining Community Service and the Study of American Public Policy

Students can learn the value of public service by participating in service-learning projects. Through a service-learning component, students gain a personal understanding of the public sector and experience with current public issues. In this study, students and teachers were assisted by service coordinators who arranged for students to experience different fields of work. At first students were not eager to participate, but once involved, they became enthusiastic. This involvement achieved positive results as students gained a broad understanding about public issues, as well as valuable experience. Many students offered more of their time than was required. Overall, students attained important personal growth from their experiences.