Service Learning as a Scholarly Pursuit

Abstract

This chapter will show how one of the top scholars programs at the University of Tennessee incorporates meaningful service-learning into its curriculum. Their model, which includes academic courses, service dialogues, and service, promotes greater scholar engagement in the community and undoubtedly enhances the classroom experiences for its students. Following the practices of many of the earlier movements, the program tries to recognize the valuable resources, the human competence, and the rich cultural legacies in the schools and communities in which they serve. It is a constant and dynamic process of assessment and reflection that will hopefully transform not only the scholars but the communities they serve.