Service-learning in elementary schools: The key to developing student citizens.

摘要

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to identify the service-learning elements that are met through student participation in service-learning projects in elementary schools. The study identifies the types, numbers, and duration of service-learning projects that students participate in at the elementary school level. The study examines whether there is a significant difference between beginning teachers of service-learning and experienced teachers of service-learning in the student achievement of service-learning elements. Finally, the study also examines whether there is a significant difference between beginning and experienced teachers in the student achievement of service-learning elements.; Methodology. Descriptive research was used to answer questions one through seven in this study. Ex post facto research was utilized to answer questions eight and nine of this study. The written survey was developed specifically for this research study using research on service-learning, student citizenship, and civic responsibility. The service-learning teachers were selected because they had developed and conducted service-learning projects in their elementary classrooms during the 2002--2003 school year.; Findings. Fifteen of the eighteen elements of service-learning scored within the "almost met" rubric category with a range of 3.05 to 3.75. One citizenship element and all three elements of civic responsibility scored within the "almost met" category. No service-learning elements were in the "met" category. Service-learning projects that concentrated on beach clean up and conservation comprised over 15 percent of the cumulative total of projects reported. Gardening projects contributed to almost 9 percent of the service-learning projects reported by the teachers.; Conclusions and recommendations. Beginning and experienced teachers provide service-learning experiences for their elementary students, prepare them to be student citizens, and engage them in the learning process. School districts provide a solid base of support for service-learning projects through in-service training, workshops, and conferences. Funding service-learning grants and projects as a part of the school districts' enhanced standards in civic education is a way to initiate and maintain high quality service-learning projects. Service-learning is not only a valuable teaching tool that builds actively engaged learners and student citizens, but also an excellent opportunity to build and nurture quality relationships with community partners.