What are the potential problems?
If service-learning is mandatory in a course, some students may complain or drop the class. On the other hand, if the project is optional, few or no people could take the opportunity. Each professor must make sure that the service-learning project will fit into reasonable time limits and should consider replacing something in the course with the SL project. Students may have difficulty finding time to do service outside of class. A student may not be able to commit to a certain day or time for community service. Flexibility is the key element here, as is close collaboration with students and community partners. There may be some legal issues with liability to consider. Students should not be placed in a site where they are likely to injure someone or get injured. If a professor is concerned about a liability issue, he or she should contact the college administration.
