Applying Theory to Community Service: A Boyeristic Model

The purpose of this paper is to examine a service learning project inspired by the Boyer Model that allows students to apply learned techniques and theory to aid in the betterment of the local community. Specifically, upper level communication studies students who had performed well in a departmental course in interviewing were encouraged to enroll in a special topics course titled, The Provision of Job Acquisition Skills for Displaced Workers. Students then worked as trainers with clients referred by community social agencies. This paper will examine this project by first providing an overview of the Boyer Model, then by providing a description of the service learning project, and finally, by touching on the application of some specific theories/perspectives on the materials developed for the project.