From writing reports to giving presentations,
learning can occur in many ways, but another way to gain knowledge
and serve the community is through service learning.
According to the Oklahoma Campus Compact, service learning is
teaching that incorporates community service experiences into
academic courses.
Students learn through active participation in meaningful and
planned service experiences in the community that are directly
related to course content.
Psychology students at Western have experienced the practical
application of service learning. Every semester psychology students
must become involved in service learning projects. These projects
include reading mail to those who can’t read because of old age or
blindness, helping coach children in sports, assisting in elementary
and junior high classes, and mentoring young kids.
“It’s giving back to the community for the community giving to you,”
said psychology instructor John Phelan. “Everyone needs to give back
somehow.”
Psychology student Brittany Miles’ service learning activity is to
assist at the Intermediate School in Altus. “I help them with
reading, talk to them, and really get the know them,” said Miles.
