Promoting Experiential Learning and Research Skills Among Community Educators: Service-Learning and Photovoice as Professional Development

• In Event: Adult Community, Literacy, and Language Educators: Professional Development and Perspectives

Abstract

Community educators face complex professional development needs. This study examined service learning (SL) as professional development practice regarding experiential learning and research skills. Research questions included: (1) How can community educators promote positive change through implementing SL? (2) What experiential learning occurs while implementing SL aiming to strengthen participants’ research practices? Data were photographs, interviews, written reflections, and field notes. Reflexive thematic analysis was utilized for data analysis. Eleven community educators participated in training for eight weeks. Study findings include a discussion about (a) photovoice research implementation, (b) impactful service-learning, (c) experiential learning, and (d) research skills development. This study contributes to literature on professional development for community educators and updates the application of service learning and experiential learning theory.

Authors

• Clarena Larrotta, Texas State University

• Fasih Raza, Texas State University