Service Learning Bibliography

Below is a bibliography compiled by the Service Learning Program staff of supplemental books, articles, handbooks, journals and websites. These resources are extremely helpful if you are beginning to use service learning in a course, or if you simply are looking for ways to alter or expand your use of the pedagogy. Many of the books and articles are available online and linked below, and many others are available in the Service Learning Library. If you are interested in borrowing any of them, please contact Kim Jensen Bohat at kimberly.jensen@mu.edu or (414) 288-0250.

Why Use Service Learning

Articles

References

Goodman, H. P., Yow, R., Standberry-Wallace, M., Dekom, R., Harper, M., Gomez, A. N., & Watson, A. D. (2023). Perspectives from community partnerships in three diverse higher education contexts. Gateways: International Journal of Community Research and Engagement, 16(2). https://doi.org/10.5130/ijcre.v16i2.8693.

  • This article provides valuable insights into the dynamics of asset-based community development (ABCD) within the context of private urban higher education institutions. It sheds light on the transformative potential of partnerships between these schools and communities, particularly in urban settings. By highlighting themes such as the importance of centering community expertise and lived experiences, the article underscores the significance of authentic engagement rooted in local needs and priorities. Moreover, it emphasizes the role of private urban institutions in supporting traditionally marginalized partners, fostering inclusivity, and combatting deficit thinking. The article stresses the importance of institutional-level support, including advocacy and solidarity efforts, and a sustained commitment to ABCD principles for fostering genuine partnerships and long-term impact. Overall, it provides valuable insights for private urban institutions seeking to engage meaningfully with their surrounding communities and drive positive social change through collaborative initiatives.

Gutzweiler, R., Pfeiffer, S., & In-Albon, T. (2022). “I can succeed at this”: Engagement in service learning in schools enhances university students’ self-efficacy. Studies in Higher Education, 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1080/03075079.2022.2091126.

  • The study delved into the transformative potential of service learning experiences, particularly in bolstering college students’ self-efficacy, while spotlighting the crucial roles of feedback and gender. Across two years, 267 psychology students engaged in service learning, with their self-efficacy levels gauged before, during, and after the program. Encouragingly, the findings revealed a notable upswing in both general and teaching self-efficacy from the program’s outset to its conclusion, particularly among female participants and those who received feedback. Notably, service learning helped narrow gender-based disparities in self-efficacy, with feedback further amplifying its effects. These results underscored the profound impact of service learning, not just in fostering individual growth but also in promoting gender equity. By emphasizing feedback and gender as pivotal factors in shaping self-efficacy within service learning contexts, the study highlights the transformative power of experiential learning initiatives in higher education. As previous research has outlined the myriad benefits of service learning, this study reinforces its importance as a catalyst for personal and societal change, providing compelling evidence for the integration of service learning into university curricula. Further exploration into the long-term effects and additional factors influencing self-efficacy promises to unveil even more reasons why service learning is a cornerstone of holistic education.

Shanti, C., Gerstenblatt, P., & Frisk, S. (2021). Putting the pieces together: critical service learning and social work education. Social Work Education, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/02615479.2021.1924663.

  • The integration of critical service-learning and creative placemaking in a social work elective class facilitated profound student experiences, as evidenced by key thematic findings. This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of students engaged in the creation of a participatory mosaic mural within a community-university partnership. The thematic analysis revealed three primary themes: the role and power of art, the importance of relationships, and the impact of community engagement. Participants described art not only as a means of expression but also as a tool for community building and therapeutic exploration. The collaborative nature of the project fostered meaningful connections among participants, transcending linguistic and social barriers. Moreover, students recognized the potential of art as a catalyst for social change, viewing their involvement in the mural project as a form of activism and community empowerment. This integrated approach to service-learning, grounded in critical pedagogy and creative placemaking, underscores the transformative potential of arts-based interventions in social work education. By engaging students in multidisciplinary learning within authentic community contexts, this study contributes to the evolving landscape of service-learning and highlights the value of innovative pedagogical approaches in fostering civic engagement and social justice. Keywords: Critical service-learning, creative placemaking, social work education, community engagement, participatory art.

Shea, L.-M., Harkins, D., Ray, S., & Grenier, L. I. (2022). How Critical is Service-Learning Implementation? Journal of Experiential Education, 105382592211227. https://doi.org/10.1177/10538259221122738.

  • Service learning, as explained by this study, emerges as a pedagogical approach intertwining community service with academic coursework. This allows students, faculty, and community partner to foster critical reflection and civic engagement among students. The research demonstrates the multifaceted nature of service learning, showcasing its potential to shape students into socially conscious and actively engaged citizens. The findings underscore the significance of pedagogical implementation, highlighting the pivotal role of educators in orchestrating meaningful service-learning experiences. This annotated bibliography entry serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of service learning, offering insights into its theoretical underpinnings and practical implications for higher education institutions like Marquette University.

Books

Bryant, J.A., Schoenemann, N., & Karpa, D.  (2011). Integrating service-learning into the university classroom.  Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.

Casey, K.M., Davidson, G., Billig, S.H., & Springer, N.C. (2006).  Advancing knowledge in service-learning: Research to transform the field.  Greenwich, CT: Information Age Publishing, Inc.

Cipolle, S.B. (2010).  Service-learning and social justice: Engaging students in social change.

Hatcher, J.A., & Bringle, R.G.  (2012). Understanding service-learning and community engagement: Crossing boundaries through research.  Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, Inc.

Jason, L.A., & Glenwick, D.S. (2012).  Methodological approaches to community-based research.  Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Johnson, R.G. III  (2009).  A twenty-first century approach to teaching social justice: Education for both advocacy and action.  New York, NY: Peter Lang Publishing.

Kaye, C. B. (2004). The complete guide to service learning: Proven, practical ways to engage students in civic responsibility, academic curriculum, & social action. Minneapolis, MN: Free Spirit.

Meens, D.E. (2014).  Democratic and social justice goals in service-learning evaluation: Contemporary challenges and conceptual resources.  Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning, 21(1), 41-54.

Moely, B.E., Billig, S.H., & Holland, B.A. (2009).  Creating our identities in service-learning and community engagement.  Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, Inc.

Pliner, S.M. & Banks, C.A.  (2012).  Teaching, Learning, and Intersecting Identities in Higher Education.  New York, NY: Peter Lang Publishing.

Stewart, T., & Webster, N. (2011).  Problematizing service-learning: Critical reflections for development and action.  Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, Inc.

Strand, K., Marullo, S., Cutforth, N., Stoecker, R., & Donohue, P.  (2003).  Community-based research and higher education.  San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Reflection

Articles

Ash, S.L., & Clayton, P.H. (2004). The articulated learning: An approach to guided reflection and assessment. Innovative Higher Education, 29(2).

Ash, S. L., & Clayton, P.H. (2009).  Generating, deepening, and documenting learning: The power of critical reflection in applied learning.  Journal of Applied Learning in Higher Education, 1, 25–48.

Ash, S.L., Clayton, P.H., & Atkinson, M.P. (2005) Integrating reflection and assessment to capture and improve student learning. Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning, 11(2), 49-60.

Ash, S.L., Clayton, P.H., & Moses, M.G. (2007). Schematic overview of the DEAL model for critical reflection. Teaching and Learning Through Critical Reflection: An Instructors' Guide. Sterling, VA: Stylus Publishing.

Bleicher, R.E., & Correia, M.G. (2011). Using a “small moments” writing strategy to help students reflect on their service-learning experiences.  Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement, 15(4), 17-30.

Falk, D. (1995). Preflection: A strategy for enhancing reflection. NSEE Quarterly, 13.

Gelmon, S. B., Holland, B. A., Driscoll, A., Spring, A., & Kerrigan, S. (2001). Assessing service-learning and civic engagement: Principals and techniques. Providence, RI: Campus Compact, Brown University.

Guthrie, K., & McCracken, H. (2014).  Reflection: the importance of making meaning in e-service-learning courses.  Journal of Computing in Higher Education, 26(3), 238-252.

Hatcher, J.A., & Studer, M.L. (2015).  Service-learning and philanthropy: Implications for course design.  Theory Into Practice, 54(1), 11-19.

Hatcher, J.A., Bringle, R.G., & Muthiah, R. (2004). Designing effective reflection: What matters to service-learning? Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning, 11(1), 38-46.

Maddrell, J. (2014).  Service-learning instructional design considerations.  Journal of Computing in Higher Education, 26(3), 213-226.

Patti, C. & Ash, S. (2005).Reflection as a key component in faculty development. On the Horizon, 13(3).

Reed, J. & Koliba, C. Facilitating reflection: A manual for leaders and educators.

Smagorinsky, P., Clayton, C.M., & Johnson, L.L. (2015). Distributed scaffolding in a service-learning course.  Theory Into Practice, 54(1), 71-78.

Sturgill, A., & Motley, P. (2014).  Methods of reflection about service learning: Guided vs. free, dialogic vs. expressive, and public vs. private.  Teaching and learning inquiry, 1(81).

Welch, M. (1999). ABCs of reflection: A template for students and instructors to implement written reflection in service learning. NSEE Quarterly, 25(2), 23-25.
Wolcott, S.K., & Lynch, C.L. (2000). The reflective judgment model: Implications for service-learning and reflection.

Books

Eyler, J., & Giles, D.E. (1996). A practitioner's guide to reflection in service-learning. Nashville: Vanderbilt University, 1996.

How Does Service Learning Benefit Partnerships?

Articles

References

Hurd, C., & Stanton, T. K. (2022, September 12). Community engagement as community development: Making the case for multilateral, collaborative, equity-focused campus-community partnerships | campus compact. Compact.org. https://compact.org/resources/community-engagement-as-community-development-making-the-case-for-multilateral-collaborative-equity-focused-campus-community-partnerships.

  • The essay outlines a transformative approach to service-learning and community engagement (SLCE) that emphasizes the cultivation of robust relationships and partnerships. It argues that conventional SLCE practices often prioritize individualistic service delivery over fostering meaningful connections with communities. By proposing a shift towards collaborative, equity-focused civic action and community development, the authors highlight the inherent value of service-learning in nurturing relationships and partnerships grounded in sustainable justice and community empowerment. This reimagined model positions students not as mere volunteers but as allies, accompanying community partners in their endeavors. Through active engagement in diverse, multilateral partnerships, students gain valuable experiential learning opportunities while contributing to sustainable social change efforts. Moreover, by emphasizing continuous reflection and relationship-building, this approach fosters trust and mutual accountability among stakeholders, paving the way for deeper, more meaningful collaborations. Ultimately, the essay underscores how service-learning, when approached through a lens of community development and equity, can serve as a powerful catalyst for building and strengthening relationships and partnerships that drive positive social transformation.

O’Brien, D., Nygreen, K., & Sandler, J. (2022, December 15). Theorizing relationships in critical community engaged research: Justice-Oriented collaborations as resistance to neoliberalism | campus compact. Compact.org. https://compact.org/resources/theorizing-relationships-in-critical-community-engaged-research-justice-oriented-collaborations-as-resistance-to-neoliberalism.

  • This research article provides a comprehensive analysis of a community-university partnership focused on racial justice initiatives, particularly addressing the school-to-prison pipeline. Through the lens of the Constructing a Vision for Racial Justice at the School–Community Nexus (CVRJ) project, the authors examine the purpose, process, outcomes, and lessons learned from the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of equitable relationships as both a means and an outcome of community-engaged scholarship. The CVRJ project involved various activities such as conducting surveys on school discipline, raising awareness through posters, and organizing public actions to combat racial disparities in education. This research underscores how service-learning initiatives, like the CVRJ project, contribute to building beneficial relationships by centering youth voices, addressing structural injustices, and fostering transformative knowledge and practice in communities.

Pierce (Boomer), N. J., & Emmerson (Zoomer), A. (2023, September 21). The power and promise of intergenerational collaboration: Higher education institutions as proving ground | campus compact. Compact.org. https://compact.org/resources/the-power-and-promise-of-intergenerational-collaboration-higher-education-institutions-as-proving-ground.

  • The research conducted in this paper delves into the dynamics of intergenerational collaboration within higher education institutions, focusing particularly on the concept of “cogeneration.” By bringing together individuals from different generations, the study aims to understand how such collaborations can effectively address societal challenges. One key aspect highlighted in the research is the role of service learning in fostering relationships and partnerships across generations. Through service learning initiatives, where students engage in meaningful community service activities as part of their academic curriculum, the study finds that participants not only contribute to societal needs but also build mutually beneficial relationships with individuals from different age groups. These relationships are characterized by a sense of shared purpose and reciprocity, as younger and older adults work together towards common goals. Furthermore, the study suggests that service learning facilitates the development of long-lasting partnerships between higher education institutions and community organizations, fostering a culture of collaboration and civic engagement. Overall, the research underscores the value of service learning as a catalyst for building meaningful intergenerational relationships and partnerships that contribute to positive social change..

 

Books

Stoecker, R. & Tryon, E. (2009). The Unheard Voices: Community Organizations and Service Learning. Philadelphia, PA: Temple University Press.

How Does Service Learning Benefit the Classroom?

 
 

Articles

Prentice, M., & Robinson, G. (2010, June 11). Improving student learning outcomes with service learning | campus compact. Compact.org. https://compact.org/resources/improving-student-learning-outcomes-with-service-learning.

  • The AACC study explored the impact of service-learning courses in urban education at predominantly White institutions (PWIs) using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Surveys were administered to students and faculty over three years, focusing on six learning outcomes: critical thinking, communication, teamwork, civic responsibility, global understanding, and academic success. Results showed that service-learning students scored significantly higher in five out of six learning areas compared to non-service learners. Students reported increased retention of academic content, improved reasoning, leadership skills, and confidence. Faculty also observed the positive impact of service learning on student motivation and career aspirations. Service learning was seen as instrumental in providing students with real-world experiences that enhanced their learning and prepared them for future academic and professional endeavors. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of service learning in promoting student engagement, fostering personal and professional growth, and contributing to their overall educational development.

Shiller, J. (2022). Critically engaged in a predominantly white institution: The power of a critical service-learning course to cultivate a social justice stance | campus compact. Compact.org, 26(1). https://compact.org/resources/critically-engaged-in-a-predominantly-white-institution-the-power-of-a-critical-service-learning-course-to-cultivate-a-social-justice-stance.

  • This study investigates the impact of a critical service-learning course in urban education within predominantly White institutions (PWIs). Employing qualitative research methods, the investigation examines students’ reflections, assignments, and course evaluations to evaluate the course’s effectiveness. Throughout the study, students participated in service projects aimed at addressing genuine needs in urban schools, collaborating closely with their community partners. These initiatives encompassed various activities, such as establishing food pantries, organizing afterschool programs, and curating culturally responsive libraries. Analysis of the data revealed that the course facilitated critical reflection through service learning, while also challenging students’ beliefs by nurturing a strong commitment to social justice. Additionally, participants developed improved self-awareness and recognized asset-based perspectives prevalent in marginalized communities. This was achieved through maintaining established mutually respectful relationships with community partners to teach students these skills. The study demonstrated that this transformative educational experience equipped students with the necessary tools to advocate for equity and enact tangible change. It underscores the significance of critical service-learning in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion imperatives within PWIs.

Soyer, M., McCrackin, G., Ziyanak, S., Givens, J., Jump, V., & Schad, J. (2022). Leaving the Lectures Behind: Using Community-Engaged Learning in Research Methods Classes to Teach about Sustainability. Teaching Sociology, 51(2), 0092055X2211146. https://doi.org/10.1177/0092055x221114688.

  • This article investigates the integration of community-engaged learning (CEL) into an undergraduate social research course, emphasizing sustainability issues. Through structured CEL methodologies, including guest lectures and collaboration with community partners, students gained practical research skills and deepened their understanding of sustainability challenges. Findings highlight the benefits of CEL in enhancing traditional classroom learning by fostering teamwork, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, students demonstrated increased confidence and civic engagement, contributing to meaningful societal outcomes while acquiring academic knowledge. Overall, the study underscores the transformative potential of CEL in promoting active learning, preparing students for real-world challenges, and cultivating a sense of social responsibility, particularly in the context of sustainability education.

Terry, A. M., & Qi, Z. (2024). Unveiling the transformative power of service-learning: Student-Led mental ...: EBSCOhost. Journal of Service-Learning in Higher Education. EBSCO.

  • This study, conducted at a Midwestern teaching institution, investigated the impact of a semester-long civic engagement initiative on student learning and community involvement, particularly in the realm of mental health awareness. The research employed roundtable discussions as a service-learning tool within criminal justice courses, fostering dialogue on mental health issues. Methodologically, the study utilized self-constructed questions and the Civic Engagement Short Scale Plus (CES2+) to gauge participants’ endorsement and internalization of community engagement. The findings revealed a significant increase in participants’ willingness to engage in community discourse and advocate for social justice following their involvement in the initiative. These results highlight the efficacy of service learning in enriching educational experiences for students and faculty. They also underscore its role in nurturing a sense of civic responsibility and a commitment to social justice among students.

Community-Based Research

Books

Fitzgerald, H.E., Burack, C, & Seifer, S.D. (2010). Handbook of engaged scholarship (Vol. 1). East Lansing: Michigan State University Press.

Jason, L.E. & Glenwick, D.S. (2012). Methodological approaches to community-based research (1st ed.). Washington, D.C.: American Psychological Association.

Strand, K., Cutforth, N., Stoecker, R., Marullo, S., Donohue, P. (2003). Community-based research and higher education. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Stoecker, R. (2013). Research methods for community change: a project-based approach (2nd e.). Thousand Oaks: Sage Publications.

Relevant Websites