Development of a Service Learning Experience Focused Accounting Course

• In Event: Session C: Teaching, Learning & Curriculum III

Abstract

The accounting profession has been asking for graduates with more hands on experience. However, for a variety of reasons many students cannot undertake a traditional internship course. This, coupled with a thrust toward more community involvement, led to the inclusion of a course that is focuses on service learning and real world experience in our accounting curriculum. Partnering with two large not-for-profit organizations that provide training and consultative services to small and minority owned businesses, the course sends students into the community to provide follow up accounting training and consulting with the goals of strengthening the participating businesses while giving the students an opportunity to address complex problems in a real world setting. The paper describes the organization, operation and results of the first seven semesters of the course.

Authors

• Donna Elaine Sanders, University of Texas-San Antonio

• James E. Groff, The University of Texas at San Antonio

• Gary L. Bridges, The University of Texas at San Antonio