Service Learning: Assessing Student Outcomes In A Strategic Management Class

Abstract

Due to the fast-paced, unpredictable, and complicated world of business, business educators are challenged to connect theory to practice. Service learning is one method that not only enhances student learning through practical application, it also provides benefits to community organizations involved and the clients they serve. It connects theory to practice. The hypothesis proposed by this study is that service learning will result in a change in student skills as measured by the Learning Skills Profile. Senior, undergraduate business majors enrolled in a capstone Strategic Management class participated in a service learning project. Skills were accessed before and after the service learning experience. The findings suggested that service learning impacted analytical, interpersonal, informational, and behavioral skills.