Reason why community action/leadership is part of our black belt requirements. #3

[MeLisa Turcott Strongheart]

In an article written by Education Week discusses the positive attributes of service learning; “Service learning can teach students and teachers a great deal. Although the final product is the culminating event that everyone works hard to achieve, service learning is also about the process from beginning to end. The whole experience can be a great learning experience, especially when students are a part of the decision making.” (DeWitt, 2012)

The article continues with discussing the viewpoints of why service learning is so important in the school setting. “Many students get caught up in their own lives, and their importance often revolves around friends, family, sports or academics. Through service learning students can see their part of the larger community and learn why it is important to help others. In addition, if the projects involve helping out people in third world countries, students may see that their lives are not as bad as they may think.” (DeWitt, 2012)

Dewitt continues by saying, “Service learning projects can be life changing for students. They learn empathy for others, and may even get the real life experience they need to inspire them to find a career. Through helping others, students may find that they want to go into the human services field or even go more global by joining the Peace Corps.” (Dewitt, 2012)

Overall, service learning is an important aspect in our future generations. It utilizes the fundamental skills that educators are seeking. It also supports the schools’ and communities’ willingness for positive change and supports growth from our young leaders.