Service learning: engineering, construction science, and the experiential curriculum

Abstract

Service Learning is a form of experiential learning that utilizes the context of a community service project to practice academic skills. In recent years Service learning has been included in many academic disciplines throughout the United States. Incorporating a hands-on component into the curriculums of construction science is challenging for the instructor. Most often these service-learning activities are accompanied by lessons in the classroom creating a pedagogical synergy not found in singular teaching/learning activities in the traditional classroom setting. A difficulty arises when professors want to develop service-learning projects for courses in structures. This paper examines the current status of service learning in the Construction Science curriculum and proposes a service-learning project for Construction Science students at Texas A&M University. Interest in Service Learning has occurred at the university.