Student Learning in Computing-Based Service-Learning

This Innovative Practice Full Paper presents an approach to computing, project based service-learning. Service-learning, also called community-engagement and community-based learning, strives to mold students into lifelong learners who are mindful of their communities and the world around them by developing their critical thinking capabilities and helping them acquire knowledge to aid them in understanding the world. Although service learning is not new to computing curriculum, literature and resources are scarce. At Purdue University, the Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS) program offers service-learning design courses to undergraduate students from many disciplines. This study focuses on students engaged in software-based projects. An analysis of the reflections from three project teams show that students are learning through the design process, value the mentoring within the team and the impact of their community partners on themselves and their view of their profession.