Experiential and critical service-learning: Course components that matter

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Sunday 1:45 pm
  In Poster Session: Experiential Education and Community Engagement: Scholarship and Practice SIG Poster Session

Abstract

This research explores the transformative impact of experiential-learning on preservice teachers' perceptions of urban schools. Conducted during a semester-long course, the study promotes incorporating critical service-learning to shift deficit views of urban schools. Sixteen TESL and elementary education students participated at Thunderbird School, an urban school serving predominantly minoritized, economically disadvantaged students. Data were collected through surveys, demographic analyses, site visit reflections, and final papers. Analysis revealed shifts from deficit views to recognizing systemic challenges and the importance of community engagement. The study underscores the potential of critical service-learning in fostering social justice-oriented educators equipped to address urban education complexities.

Author

• Elizabeth Gayle Soslau, University of Delaware