The Relationship Between CSL and Volunteerism
By Kassandra Wenaas
The benefits that CSL offers is crucial in establishing an increase in volunteer awareness, despite the differences between the two. "Unlike extracurricular voluntary service, service learning is a course-based service experience that produces the best outcomes when meaningful service activities are related to course material through reflection activities such as directed writings, small group discussions, and class presentations." (Bringle & Hatcher, 1996, p. 2).
Although aware of the discrepancies between volunteerism and CSL, University of Calgary students, Ashad Mukadam and Robin Lundine, still argue that CSL acts to generate more support for volunteering within the community:
"Participating in CSL can enhance the volunteering opportunities because positive feedback leads to more people wanting to help out with the community partners."-Mukadam
"I definitely think that more support for volunteering can be garnered by CSL. I did not want to leave the community I had become a part of and therefore I continued on with the group after the CSL experience. I think CSL students can create really wonderful connections with community groups and other volunteers which increases the likelihood they will stay afterwards." -Lundine
In fact, Bringle & Hatcher’s (1996) study found the following:
Academic credit related to service activities increased the attractiveness of students getting involved in service. Thus, service learning, with the incentive of academic credit for service associated with the classroom, provides an important means for increasing student participation in community service and enhancing the community service experiences for those already involved. (pp. 9-10).
Essentially, by introducing CSL, an increase in civic awareness is fostered within students. This acts to promote student interactions and involvement within their communities. CSL fosters an environment that is strongly related to participation in volunteer work.
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