Service-Learning is defined by:
- Bringle and Hatcher as a credit-bearing, educational experience in which students participate in an organized service activity that meets identified community needs and reflect on the service activity in such a way as to gain further understanding of course content, a broader appreciation of the discipline, and an enhanced sense of civic responsibility.
Robert Bringle and Julie Hatcher, "A Service Learning Curriculum for Faculty." The Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning. Fall 1995. 112-122.
- The American Association for Higher Education (AAHE) as a method under which students learn and develop through thoughtfully organized service that: is conducted and meets the needs of a community and is coordinated with an institution of a higher education, and with the community; helps foster civic responsibility; is integrated into and enhances the academic curriculum of the students enrolled; and includes structured time for students to reflect on the service experience.
American Association for Higher Education (AAHE): Series on Service-Learning in the Disciplines (adapted from the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993).
- Campus Compact National Center for Community Colleges as a teaching method which combines community service with academics instruction as it focuses on critical, reflective thinking and civic responsibility. Service-learning programs involve students in organized community service that addresses local needs, while developing their academic skills, sense of civic responsibility, and commitment to the community.
Campus Compact National Center for Community Colleges