Service-learning provides a tool for higher education institutions to focus on student learning and development, while contributing to the needs of communities and society. The purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of the meaning students made of their service-learning experiences and how these experiences contributed to student learning and self-awareness. This understanding clarified connections students made between academic achievement, self-awareness, life experiences, and service-learning.;This study was conducted at Central College, a four-year, liberal arts college, in Pella, Iowa. The participants were enrolled in a psychology course where service-learning was integrated into course requirements. The data collection methods utilized were a combination of focus group interviews, individual in-depth interviews, and document analysis (student journals).;Students shared the following elements were key to their service-learning experiences and contributed to their learning and self-awareness: structured reflection, articulated purposes and goals, concrete experiences to coincide with course material, the role of the professor, and the interaction and establishment of relationships with others.;The experiences that students had involving service played a role in their learning and self-development. These experiences became an intertwined web connected to each other, all contributing to how students made connections between life experiences, academic achievement, self-awareness and service-learning.;Students learned from their actual lived service-learning experiences. These experiences provided a direct link between learning of course material and actual application of what they learned to their service site. Through service-learning, students made connections with their personal and intellectual development. The emotional power of these service-learning experiences helped students connect with what was occurring in the classroom; therefore, learning was enhanced. It became a more holistic learning environment engaging students\u27 minds, as well as their hearts.;Students developed a better sense of self-awareness when challenged to interact with others in diverse environments. Exposure and experiences through service-learning provided opportunities for students to evaluate their views, morals, and beliefs, as well as future career and personal goals.;Service-learning is an avenue where practical and academic knowledge become integrated. It is through this integration that higher education professionals can foster successful and holistic learning environments for students.
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