Service-Learning: Connecting Practical Experience With Classroom Instruction

Abstract

Academic programs in Parks, Recreation and Tourism have long required undergraduate students to perform professional fieldwork, practica, and/or internships as a part of their formal preparation. A current trend in higher education is to integrate this type of experiential learning throughout the academic process through a “service learning” pedagogy. This article discusses the foundations of service-learning, describes the criteria for establishing service-learning experiences, and the potential benefits of this type of teaching pedagogy.