Service Learning

This past academic year, Grade 7 students have been involved in service learning with the Grade 4 students.  This process was coordinated by Martin Mikus and Maria Albornez. 

Service learning is seen as an engaging dynamic building on the core curriculum. Read the IB descriptions below to understand the service learning process.

Investigation: Students gather information about an issue through action research that includes use of varied approaches: media, interviews of experts, surveys of varied populations, and direct observation and personal experiences. The action research typically reveals the authentic need that students will address.
Preparation: The service learning process moves forward as students continue to acquire knowledge and raise and resolve questions regarding the authentic need. They identify community partners, organize a plan with clarification of roles, responsibilities and time lines, and develop skills needed to successfully carry out the plan.
Action: Students implement their plan through direct service, indirect service, advocacy, and/or research. Action is planned with partners based on mutual understandings and perspectives, and aims for reciprocal benefits for all involved.
Reflection: Reflection is ongoing and occurs as a considered summation of thoughts and feelings regarding essential questions and varied experiences to inform content knowledge, increase self- awareness, and assist in ongoing planning. When students have varying modalities for reflection, they grow to identify their preferred ways to reflect and value the reflective process. This leads to students becoming reflective by choice.
Demonstration: Student demonstration captures the entire service learning experience, beginning with investigation, and includes what has been learned, the process of learning, and the service or contribution accomplished. Sharing this with an audience educates and informs others. Students draw upon their skills and talents in the manner of demonstration, often integrating technology.