Studying Service-Learning: Innovations in Education Research Methodology

Using service-learning as its focus, this book explores ways in which researchers and evaluators can study a teaching and learning approach that has multiple goals, including both academic and affective development. Seven challenges that researchers need to grapple with in studying service-learning are identified and addressed: defining service-learning; basing service-learning research on strong theoretical foundations; refining service-learning research design and methodology; interpreting service-learning results; disseminating service-learning research findings; improving service-learning practice; and building funding to support service-learning research. In addition, practical recommendations are provided for professionals involved in doing research on service-learning and more broadly on any form of experiential education, community service and development, or educational reform.