International Service-Learning: A Synthesis of the Research Literature

Abstract

There is an increased effort to prepare students in higher education to work and live in a global world, especially in health-related fields. The focus on global communities with a strong commitment to cultural diversity is a high priority for many institutions of higher learning. To reach this goal, educators need research-based pedagogies to facilitate optimal learning outcomes. This session will look beyond the literature that presents only personal experiences and anecdotal evidence of learning to review research conducted with international service-learning programs. The review of literature includes publications between 1998 and 2012 and documentation as a research study using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods. These recommendations may be used for designing and implementing programs to ensure the most effective service-learning experiences.

The learning objectives for this session will include:

  1. The participants will be able to describe 8-10 research-based recommendations for implementing an international service-learning program.
  2. The participants will actively engage in dialogue regarding how these recommendations can be adapted for use in a local community.

Every student cannot engage in international travel. With some prior planning, they can be afforded the opportunity to engage in meaningful service-learning with a culturally diverse community, either at home or abroad.

Location

Room 2002

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Mar 26th, 10:00 AM Mar 26th, 10:45 AM

International Service-Learning: A Synthesis of the Research Literature

Room 2002

There is an increased effort to prepare students in higher education to work and live in a global world, especially in health-related fields. The focus on global communities with a strong commitment to cultural diversity is a high priority for many institutions of higher learning. To reach this goal, educators need research-based pedagogies to facilitate optimal learning outcomes. This session will look beyond the literature that presents only personal experiences and anecdotal evidence of learning to review research conducted with international service-learning programs. The review of literature includes publications between 1998 and 2012 and documentation as a research study using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods. These recommendations may be used for designing and implementing programs to ensure the most effective service-learning experiences.

The learning objectives for this session will include:

  1. The participants will be able to describe 8-10 research-based recommendations for implementing an international service-learning program.
  2. The participants will actively engage in dialogue regarding how these recommendations can be adapted for use in a local community.

Every student cannot engage in international travel. With some prior planning, they can be afforded the opportunity to engage in meaningful service-learning with a culturally diverse community, either at home or abroad.