Service-Learning in Singapore: Preparing Teachers for the Future

The key to expansion of service-learning at the K-12 level is the development of education programs that effectively prepare teachers in the pedagogy and practice of service and civic engagement. While many countries around the world are experimenting with various approaches, Singapore has initiated a program that mandates service-learning as an integral part of their preparation of teachers' values, skills, and knowledge. Using a variety of approaches and courses, especially a required class in "group endeavors in service learning," preservice teachers spend up to nine months developing and implementing a service-learning project with schools and community organizations. Quantitative and qualitative studies reveal that the effort is having a positive effect with preservice teachers, enriching their civic attitudes and ability to carry out group service-learning projects.