School-Based Service-Learning for Promoting Citizenship in Young People: A Systematic Review

摘要

An engaged citizenry is essential for a strong democracy. In many democratic nations, however, various forms of civic and political participation are declining. Whether reflected in reduced union membership, church attendance, voter turnout, or other means of participation, the trends are apparent and have caused many organizations to invest efforts in promoting citizenship attitudes and behaviors in the younger generation. School-based service- learning is a teaching strategy that links community service with academic instruction and has been suggested as one possible approach to promoting citizenship in youth. Previous reviews have lacked specificity in determining whether the available evidence shows that these programs are really effective. The objective of this review is to evaluate the efficacy of school-based service-learning programs in their ability to promote positive citizenship qualities in adolescent youth. After searching electronic databases and web sites, only two randomized controlled trials were found to meet the inclusion criteria. A critical analysis of the studies revealed various weaknesses in methodology and common limitations and challenges to studying service-learning programs. Although the available evidence shows service-learning programs are helpful for youth development, more quality research is needed to confirm that these programs are effective in promoting positive citizenship qualities in young people.