Service- Learning

REFLECTION: MY SOCIAL ACTION PROJECT Consider the effectiveness of the project, considering each component and reflecting Over the past few weeks, I have come to learn so much and build relationships with others. Organising and running a donation drive was a great experience as it allowed for me to work with the school, the organisation and with other members to make it all happen. I feel that I now know how to run an event smoothly and what all needs to be considered throughout the whole process and how to get the community involved. How has service-learning changed me personally? Service-learning, an educational approach that combines academic studies with volunteer work for mutual benefit, has the power to change. By doing this practical exposure, we can foster better understanding and compassion. Service-learning encourages greater civic engagement and a sense of accountability for tackling societal concerns. By tackling real-world issues, it hones problem-solving skills, enhances interpersonal and communication skills, encourages personal growth by encouraging us to step outside of their comfort zones, and creates cultural competency in our interconnected world (Elmhurst University, 2019). Additionally, it benefits both people and the communities they live in by providing professional and educational advantages, instilling a sense of purpose, fostering social relationships, and frequently igniting a lifetime dedication to service and social responsibility. It provides advantages in terms of careers and education, builds social connections, in stills a sense of purpose, and frequently ignites a lifelong commitment to volunteerism and social responsibility, having a tremendous impact on both individuals and the communities they serve (Elmhurst University, 2019). What new knowledge, skills and/or attitudes have I gained? We acquired a lot of fresh knowledge by engaging in service-learning such as a comprehensive awareness of the particular requirements, difficulties, and assets present in the communities we interacted with. Additionally, we learned knowledge beyond what is taught in textbooks on certain social issues like poverty, homelessness, environmental sustainability, or educational inequality. Necessary skills were developed to effectively address these community needs by researching neighbourhood resources and support networks. Our interactions with others enhanced cultural sensitivity and awareness as well. We have gained knowledge of the complex laws and rules that form the communities they work in, increasing their understanding of the political and systemic aspects of social problems. A diverse collection of new abilities were developed through community service or service-learning. Participants develop their discourse skills and active listening, which are crucial for interacting with other groups (Elmhurst University, 2019). Through practical service initiatives, our capacity was developed for cooperation and teamwork. Our capacity to bring about constructive change is enhanced by the development of problem-solving skills, particularly when addressing actual community challenges (Elmhurst University, 2019). Opportunities to assume leadership positions inside initiatives or organisations help people develop crucial leadership abilities. Along with research abilities required to compile pertinent data for service endeavours, we learned project management expertise that is applicable on both a personal and professional level. Finally, they acquire greater adaptability and flexibility, which are essential qualities for handling unforeseen difficulties and changing project dynamics (Elmhurst University, 2019). Community service and service-learning activities promote a transforming set of new attitudes. It fosters a deep understanding of the human experience and heightens empathy and compassion, especially for those who are suffering. This encounter strengthened our sense of civic duty and motivated us to actively participate in social change for the better. People become profoundly aware of societal issues, developing a sense of social consciousness and gratitude for their privileges, which fuels a desire to give back to the community (Elmhurst University, 2019). This whole experience or journey increases self-efficacy and confidence, fostering a sense of possibility for making a significant impact. For many people, it inspires a passion for lifelong service, increased cultural sensitivity, openness to different viewpoints, and, in certain cases, increased environmental consciousness and a dedication to sustainable practises. These newly acquired information, abilities, and attitudes have a profound effect on one's personal growth and enable one to make a constructive contribution to society while tackling urgent social and neighbourhood problems. The benefit of this initiative to the school and comment on its sustainability. Schools can benefit from service-learning and community service in a variety of ways. By allowing student teachers to apply what they learn in actual circumstances, it makes studying more fascinating such as instilling virtues like kindness, accountability, and concern for others in us, it also aids in our development and as future teachers (Elmhurst University, 2019). As communities and schools become friends, the school may receive greater support and benefit from these relationships. We as student teachers had the opportunity to take on leadership roles and acquire crucial life skills like problem-solving and collaboration. Schools that offer this type of education frequently have a positive reputation and draw in more students and funding (Elmhurst University, 2019). To maintain these programmes, however, schools must integrate them into their regular curriculum, enlist the support of the school community, have adequate funding, collaborate with the community, assess their effectiveness, and occasionally give student teachers the reins. In this manner, favourable events persist for a long time (Elmhurst University, 2019). Overall, the school has donated a whole lot and the donations were all gladly accepted and collected by Baby Moses, they are so grateful for everything the community helped them with. The school can feel good knowing that they are teaching their children to care about community service and show them how they can help others/organisation.

Recent Po