Combining Service and Learning in Higher Education: Evaluation of the Learn & Serve America, Higher Education Program

This report summarizes the results of a RAND study designed to resolve some fundamental questions about service-learning. The study evaluated Learn and Serve America, Higher Education (LSAHE), a service-learning program administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNS). It presents evaluation results of the Learn and Serve America, Higher Education (LSAHE) initiative. Between 1995 and 1997, about one in every eight higher education institutions nationwide participated in LSAHE by developing service-learning courses and programs. The evaluation describes the major activities and accomplishments of LSAHE-supported programs; assesses the impacts of LSAHE on students, communities, and institutions; and determines returns on the public investment in LSAHE. Results show that LSAHE was highly successful in serving communities and had mixed success in promoting student development and institutional change. Although expenditures exceeded the value of LSAHE to communities, value increased each year, suggesting that long-term positive returns may occur.