Improving Student Learning Outcomes with Service Learning

A 16-page research brief summarizing the findings and implications of a three-year study of service learning's impact on student learning outcomes at 10 community colleges. The American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) measured learning outcomes attainment for students at grantee colleges. AACC defines service learning as combining community service with academic instruction, focusing on critical, reflective thinking and personal and civic responsibility. For this grant project, AACC defined academic learning outcomes as comprising six measurable areas: critical thinking; communication; career and teamwork; civic responsibility; global understanding and citizenship; and academic development and educational success.