Service Learning in Alternative Education Settings

hen service learning is part of the curriculum, students become involved in something important and learn that they can make a difference in the world. Based on John Dewey's (1938) theory of experiential learning, service learning takes the student out of the classroom and into the community. In a 1995 public address, Secretary of Education Richard Riley remarked that "by involving students in hands-on learning, problem solving, and applications of academic knowledge in real settings, service learning can increase students' academic achievement in challenging subjects and creates a sense of engagement that enhances a student's motivation to complete school." Introducing service learning can be time consuming and filled with interesting challenges. Teachers find, however, that the process yields positive, meaningful results for students and communities. In this article, I discuss service learning as a pedagogical process for teachers serving students defined as "at-risk" in alternative education settings.