Training teachers to integrate service-learning in K-12 classrooms
Abstract
The Service-Learning Integrated Partnership in Chico, California, provides materials and training for current and future teachers to incorporate service-learning curricula in K-12 classrooms. Excerpted from the National Service News, Issue No.133, May 28, 2001.Issue
Both new and experienced teachers have yet to integrate service-learning into their lesson plans for a variety of reasons including lack of education, support, or knowledge about it.Action
The Service-Learning Integrated Partnership (SLIP) conducted more than 20 presentations on service-learning at local, regional, state, and national events. Technical assistance publications were made using CD-ROMs, PowerPoint presentations, booklets, and brochures, as well as three videotapes that were distributed to 80 colleges and universities. A website provides free technical assistance on integrating service-learning into class curricula. A partnership with the Chico Unified School District provides training and experience in service-learning for both future and current teachers.
Led by Associate Professor Teresa Davis, the California State University-Chico project effectively advances service-learning through a comprehensive approach involving partnerships, technical assistance materials, and engagement of students and faculty.
SLIP is carefully designed and continually upgraded. The partnership with the local school district provides on-going validation of the tools and techniques developed through the project, and energizes both experienced and future teachers and the children they serve.
Context
The Service-Learning Integrated Partnership project is a collaboration between the Department of Professional Studies in Education at California State University - Chico and the Northern California Partnership for Service-learning.
SLIP promotes service-learning in teacher education by providing technical assistance and developing partnerships with schools and agencies in the Chico area and throughout Northern California, preparing future teachers to effectively utilize service-learning in the classroom and to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of service-learning.
The SLIP initiative at Chico is a sub-grantee of the Learn and Serve America - Higher Education American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education's Service-Learning and Teacher Education (AACTE/SLATE) program. SLIP represents an outstanding example of how professional education, sound teaching techniques, and service-learning go together.
Outcome
College and partner schools faculty are better prepared to be service-learning instructors through revised instructional material that includes service-learning as a strategy and brings service-learning in line with state competency standards. About 500 undergraduate students have participated in SLIP, and continuing feedback and evaluation documents project success.
Through SLIP, California State University-Chico has made an impact on service-learning throughout California, and nationally, by providing print and electronic service-learning instructional and support materials to teachers and teacher candidates.
Posted On
August 10, 2001For More Information