Implementing Service-Learning Through an Online Graduate Course in Instructional Design

Abstract

The following paper describes a collaborative service-learning project done in an online graduate class on instructional design. With the help of the university's service-learning program, a community issue was identified related to encouraging underserved populations to pursue STEM careers. Graduate students developed a data analysis from surveying high school students, designed and implemented a website where information about specific careers can be found, and evaluated the project with the help of a high school science teacher. The project also required that the graduate students reflected about the service activity to gain a deeper understanding of course objectives. The course instructor and graduate students' experiences during this service-learning project are discussed.