Reflection

Student Perspectives:

“This course is the most significant course on ETSU’s campus! It’s allowed me to explore career ideas and make a career decision.”

“…It takes only one visit to this class to see the bond between the students and the teacher. Through this bond, I’ve been able to learn so much about things as prejudices, the importance of open communication, being informed about the world, and how to handle certain people and/or situations. This is the first class that truly integrates real-life experience with the classroom. The things I’m learning from this class are invaluable.”

“I have definitely had a quality learning experience. Every day I walk out of class having been enlightened. I took this course out of curiosity. It has nothing to do with my major but everything to do with the rest of my life…”

Community Perspectives:

“The service-learning program has provided positive role models for individuals with disabilities.”

“If you could package…willingness, personality and ‘can do’ spirit we’d be rich. …His true spirit emerged when working with the kids. He was great! Thank you…and keep sending us such wonderful volunteers.”

“Your students do an excellent job and we could not continue the program without your support.”

Instructors Perspectives:

“I have learned the extreme value of experience in the aspect of learning. Service-Learning enhances the overall learning in the course. Students frequently report life-altering experiences through their reflective logs.”

“Students grew in their understanding of the literature after being exposed to people outside their normal sphere of experience. The Service-Learning component greatly enhances what the students have to bring to the literature.”

“Some students are at first resistant - perhaps shy or unsure of themselves - but these fears are overcome when they get into a service they enjoy and learn from. Students often find an area they wish to continue in.”

“…To leave this world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition: To know that even one life has been breathed easier because you have lived: This is to have succeeded.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson