What is (Science) Service Learning?

Service learning, a relatively new educational concept with old roots, provides a mechanism to bridge gaps between science, universities, and communities. In this course, students are placed in community sites to address a specific community need (service). Through hands-on experience and careful guidance, the student gains new scientific knowledge in the form of methods or information, as well as an understanding of fundamental concepts such as the scientific process, ethics in science and the role of today's scientists (learning).

Service learning is different from volunteer work and research experiences. To be a service learning experience, the student must provide a needed service in the community. At the same time, the student learns and applies principles and methods that relate back to previous courses. The service should reinforce the information that has been taught in the classroom and give a deeper understanding to its content and usefulness.

Volunteer work is separated from service learning because it does not have the classroom association. It provides a service and meets the needs of the community. Research encompasses the other end of the spectrum, meeting the needs of the student to gain knowledge. The information is available to the community but it may not directly apply to community needs.

The service learning experience can also be differentiated from hands-on experience obtained in laboratory courses. Although both involve active learning, the service learning experience gives the student a deeper understanding of what influences science and scientific decisions. The student gets a sense of accomplishment and sees tangible results in society as a result of his/her work.

Science students, typically engaged in research projects, have few opportunities to participate in community service. Ironically, it is a goal of universities to produce educated citizens, not just educated people. Mechanisms are needed to bring service learning into the mainstream of university science education. The University of Washington Chemistry Department offers a three-quarter, elective course series that addresses this need. We place approximately 20 undergraduates per quarter at sites of their choice. We coordinate 8-10 service sites per quarter, ranging from elementary schools to community groups. In addition to their service projects, students participate in weekly discussions relating to the role of the scientist in the community. Reaching beyond their own campus community, Science Service Learning students develop civic skills along with scientific expertise.