Service-Learning Practice in Upper Division Geoscience Courses: Bridging Undergraduate Learning, Teaching, and Research

Abstract

This article describes the use of service-learning practice in geoscience courses taught at the University of Connecticut. The stated objectives for instituting this practice are: to foster student interest in earth sciences through community service; to enhance university outreach through interactions with communities; to enhance students' learning ability by applying course knowledge to real-world problems; and to encourage the student-centered learning process and team-work as cooperative learning. Favorable responses from both students and local community leaders show that service-learning is an effective way to improve geological undergraduate learning. Educational levels: Graduate or professional