Service-Learning in Teacher Education: Building Learning Communities

Many educators used service-learning-- a pedagogical strategy that combines authentic community service with integrated academic leaning-- to strengthen teacher education and enhance community life. Service-learning offers students opportunities to gain new skills, apply knowledge in challenging situation, and contribute to the lives of others in meaningful ways. It also helps education students acquire a sense of purpose, especially the belief that they can make a difference in the community. This article examines how service-learning in teacher education can help build a community of learners, strengthen the capacity of teachers to enhance the community, and foster increased teacher involvement in the community development process. (author)