Service learning is a tool used to achieve specific academic goals and objectives.  It enhances the development of empathy, personal values, beliefs, awareness, self-esteem, self-confidence, social responsibility and caring for others.  It is based on a reciprocal relationship in which the service learning experience reinforces and strengthens the classroom learning, and the classroom learning reinforces and strengthens the service learning experience.  Service learning also provides an opportunity for students to reflect on their experiences through any combination of reflection group participation, journals and writing assignments.

Service learning is a requirement in the following classes:

• SWK 241 Introduction to Social Work & Social Welfare
  (25 hours of service learning)
  
• SWK 302 Social Policy Analysis
  (15 hours of service learning)
  
• SWK 304 Generalist Practice with Individuals
  (30 hours of service learning with an individual 18 yrs or older)
  
• SWK 305 Generalist Practice with Families
  (Class Project within Community)
  
• SWK 401 Generalist Practice with Communities & Organizations
  (Class Project within Community)