Partners in Learning

Abstract

This study describes a service-learning partnership between a Mid-Atlantic university and two private, urban high schools by examining the perspectives of those engaged in the service experience. The purpose of this study was to explore the shared experiences of service-learning in schools from the perspectives of both university and high school participants. The key findings of this study reveal that clear and consistent responsibilities, roles, and goals are critical to developing partnerships; relationship building engenders growth of both university and high school participants; service-learning allows for practical application of course content; high school participants desire non-hierarchical relationships with university participants; and participants are able to identify similarities despite their differences. These findings highlight important aspects of the service-learning experience for both sets of participants, as well as suggest directions for course instructors to build partnerships that foster reciprocal relationships and create environments that address issues of power and privilege.