How does service learning differ from intern and volunteer experiences?
Service learning, volunteerism, and interning have much in common. In all three cases, students are contributing their time and expertise to an organization or community. The purpose and context of each differs. For volunteers, the primary beneficiary of the activity is the agency or individuals served by the agency. For interns, the experience is valuable primarily because it provides on-the-job training for the student. When students participate in service learning, they have an opportunity to put their academic learning into action by performing service for agencies and individuals. Service learning also includes reflection exercises that allow them to make connections between course content and the community-based experience. At its best, service learning transforms the learning environment and builds bridges between the classroom and local and global communities.
