Relationship Between the Quality Indicators of Service-Learning and Student Outcomes: Testing Professional Wisdom, (The)

The study examined the effects of service-learning on high school students' civic engagement and the elements of quality that were associated with the strongest outcomes. The sample included over 1,000 students who were in service-learning and non service-learning classrooms matched for grade level, subject matter, demographics, and achievement profiles. Results showed that service-learning was associated with enjoyment of school and intention to vote, with few other differences apparent between the students in the service-learning experience, such as cognitive challenge, meeting genuine needs, valuing diversity, and student preparation, were associated with specific increases in academic and civic outcomes.