Service learning audit.

Contents
1. The nature of service learning.
2. Aims.
3. Time required.
4. Learning outcomes.
5. Learning outcome descriptors.
6. Evidencing the outcomes.
7. Assessment.
8. Requirements.
9. The career-related context.
10. Links with the personal and professional skills course.
11. Links to academic studies.
12. The international dimension.
13. Service-learning experiences.
14. The 5 stages of service learning.
15. The service-learning model.
16. Four types of action.
17. Approaches to service-learning.
18. Reflection in service-learning.
19. Service-Learning Portfolio.
20. The service-learning project.
21. Service-learning interviews.
22. Risk assessment
23. Service-learning adviser.
24. Roles and Responsibilities of the school and service-learning coordinator.
25. Service-Learning Handbook

Roles and Responsibilities of the school and service-learning coordinator

1. The nature of service learning.

Service learning is a component of the Career-related Programme core.
Service learning provides opportunities for students to understand their capacity to
make a meaningful contribution to their community and society. It is the
development and application of knowledge and skills towards meeting an
identified and authentic community need.

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Through service learning, students develop and apply academic knowledge,
personal skills and social skills in real-life situations involving decision-making,
problem-solving, initiative, responsibility and accountability for their actions. The
purpose is for students to contribute to society by improving the lives of people or
assisting the environment or animals.
Service-learning benefits all involved—students as they continue developing skills
and knowledge applied to real-life situations, and the community through
reciprocal collaboration.
Service learning fosters development of abilities, attitudes and values in
accordance with the IB mission statement and the IB learner profile.
The process of service learning is best when understood and organized as an
ongoing experience occurring with regularity throughout the duration of the
students’ CP.
Wherever possible, service learning should be associated with or draw from
students’ academic studies. As students see the correlation between academics
and service learning, their content studies have greater relevance and purpose
through application.
Service learning also involves the utilization of students’ skills, expertise and
knowledge; the following approaches to service learning should always take into
account these three important factors.
During service learning, students develop and apply academic knowledge, personal
skills and social skills in real-life situations in accordance with the IB mission
statement and the IB learner profile. These skills include:
 decision-making
 problem-solving
 initiative
 responsibility
 accountability for actions.

Service-learning fosters positive development in four key areas:

1. Knowledge development refers to a deeper understanding of the nature,
purpose and importance of what is learned through varied approaches to
content and experiences. It should lead to improved cognitive and
intellectual skills, while providing a richer context for academic learning
and improved student engagement.
2. Personal development refers to the ability to tap into students’ self-
perception in relation to their abilities and potential. During the service
learning process, students identify personal interests, skills, talents and

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 areas for growth. Through awareness of their strengths, areas for growth,
inner feelings and thoughts, students become more self-aware, self-
confident, self-directed, able to take risks and resilient.
3. Social development refers to the ability to work with other individuals and
within groups. Issues of responsibility, commitment, communication,
independence and interdependence, diversity of opinion, leadership,
recognizing emotions and interpersonal relationships can all be explored.
4. Civic development refers to becoming involved in community issues and
developing pro-social behaviours. This can lead to an increased awareness of
community connections, community problems, citizenship and social
responsibility, which in turn allows the students to develop an
understanding of the relationships between local and global concerns.

Reflection is central to building a deep and rich experience in service learning. It

allows students to explore ideas, skills, strengths, limitations and areas for further
development, and to consider how they may apply their prior learning and
background in new contexts.

2. Aims.
The aims of service learning are for students to:
How do we cover the aims at #?
Aim How do we support students in
reaching this aim?
Develop and apply knowledge and
skills towards meeting an authentic
community need
Develop as leaders who take
initiative, solve problems and work
collaboratively with others
Enjoy the experiences of both
learning and service
Develop a sense of caring about, and
a responsibility for, others
Gain a deeper understanding of
themselves, their community and
society through meaningful reflection
Enhance and strengthen their
experience with the existing school
curriculum.

3. Time required.
A minimum of 50 hours is expected to be devoted to service learning.
How do we meet the 50 hours at #?

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 4. Learning outcomes.
Here are the learning outcomes for the Service-Learning course:
1. Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth.
2. Demonstrate participation with service-learning experiences.
3. Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working
collaboratively.
4. Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance.
5. Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions.

5. Learning outcome descriptors.

Learning outcome 1: Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth
Descriptor Suggested descriptors How is this done at
#?
Students are able to see The student:
themselves as individuals  is aware of his/her own
with various abilities and strengths and
skills, of which some are weaknesses
more developed than  is open to improvement

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others. and growth
opportunities
 is able to propose
activities according to
his/her own interests
and talents
 is willing to participate
in different service-
learning experiences
 is able to undertake a
thoughtful self-
evaluation
 is able to see
him/herself as an
individual with various
abilities and skills,
some more developed
than others.

Learning outcome 2: Demonstrate participation with service-learning

experiences
Descriptor Suggested descriptors How is this done at
#?
Students can articulate The student:
the five stages from  is able to articulate the
investigating and service learning stages
conceiving an idea to including investigation,
executing a plan for a preparation, action,
service learning reflection (ongoing) and
experience or series of demonstration, moving

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service learning from conceiving an idea
experiences. Students to carrying out a plan
may show their knowledge for a service learning
and awareness by building experience or series of
on a previous service service learning
learning experience, or by experiences
launching a new idea or  demonstrates
process, or by advancing knowledge and
the work of others. This awareness by building
may be accomplished in on a previous service
collaboration with other learning experience
participants.  shows initiative by
launching a new idea or
process
 suggests creative ideas,
proposals or solutions
 integrates reflective
thoughts in planning or
taking initiative
 is aware of roles and
responsibilities when
designing an individual
or collective service
learning experience
 shows a responsible
attitude towards
service learning
planning
 is able to develop a
coherent action plan
taking into account the
aim or purpose of the
service learning
experience, and
detailing the activities
and resources involved.

Learning outcome 3: Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of

working collaboratively
Descriptor Suggested descriptors How is this done at
#?
Students are able to The student:
identify and critically  shares skills and
discuss the benefits and knowledge
challenges of  listens respectfully to
collaboration gained proposals from peers
through service learning

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experiences.  is willing to take on
different roles within a
team
 shows respect for
different points of
view and ideas
 makes valuable
contributions
 is responsible for
participating in the
group
 readily assists others
 is able to identify,
demonstrate and
discuss critically the
benefits and
challenges of
collaboration gained
through service
learning experiences.

Learning outcome 4: Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance

Descriptor Suggested descriptors How is this done
at #?
Students are able to The student:
identify and demonstrate  recognizes the global
their understanding of implications of local
global issues, make issues
responsible decisions and  is able to identify
take appropriate action in global issues in the
response to the issue local or national
either locally, nationally or community

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internationally.  shows awareness of
issues of global
importance and takes
concrete and
appropriate actions in
response to them
either locally,
nationally or
internationally
 gets involved in service
learning experiences
addressing global issues
in a local, national or
international context
 develops awareness
and responsibility
towards a shared
humanity.

Learning outcome 5: Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions
Descriptor Suggested descriptors How is this done at
#?
Students show awareness The student:
of the consequences of  recognizes ethical
choices and actions in issues
planning and carrying out  is able to explain the
service learning social influences on
experiences. ethical identity
 takes into account
cultural context when

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 making a plan or
ethical decision
 identifies what he/she
needs to know in order
to make an ethical
decision
 articulates ethical
principles and
approaches to ethical
decisions
 shows accountability
for choices and actions
 is aware of the
consequences of
choices and actions
regarding self, others
involved and the
community
 integrates the process
of reflection when
facing an ethical
decision
 shows awareness of the
potential and varied
consequences of
choices and actions in
planning and carrying
out service learning
experiences.

6. Evidencing the outcomes.

Some service-learning outcomes may be achieved many times, while others may be
demonstrated less frequently. Not all service-learning experiences lead to a
service-learning outcome.
Students provide the school with evidence in their service-learning portfolio of
having achieved each learning outcome at least once through their service-learning
programme.

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The service-learning coordinator must reach agreement with students as to what
evidence is necessary to demonstrate achievement of each service-learning
outcome. Commonly, this evidence draws from the students’ reflections and, along
with other representations, is collected in the student service-learning portfolio.
How do we evidence the Service-learning outcomes at #?

7. Assessment.
The school is responsible for setting the wider requirements for students’
achievement in service learning.
The nature of assessment in the service-learning strand of the CP core is to be
determined by the school. Assessment is intended to go beyond a review of student
reflections to a deeper exploration of the elements of the service-learning
programme for continual development.
The assessment can capture multiple voices of those involved within the school
and within the community. It can be a blend of the following dynamic forms of
inquiry:
How will we assess service-learning at #?
For Against
Interviews
Reviews of student reflections
(students select what can be
shared)
Pre-and post-experience
questionnaires
Discussions with
community/external partners
Student presentations.

The aim is to improve the service-learning experience for all involved and also to
strengthen the teaching methods used for the future.
The assessment can focus on:
Student learning:
 Did student learning advance in both content knowledge and skills?
 Was student initiative taken?
 Have the students gained deeper understanding of an issue or cause of local
or global significance?

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  Was reflection used as a means for self-discovery and understanding the
larger context of community and society?
 Did the students identify a method of reflection they enjoy and do by
choice?
 Could the students differentiate between cognitive and affective growth?
What is the focus of student learning at #?

Impact of service:
 Is there evidence of reciprocal benefits for all involved?
 Were students able to articulate and verify a need?
 Have new and ongoing relationships been formed?
 What change is apparent from student action?
How do we assess the impact of service at #?

The process:
 Were the five stages implemented to advance student learning?
 Can the students articulate how this process can assist with other aspects of
their development in and out of school?
How do we assess how students have used the Service-learning process #?

8. Requirements.
All CP students are required to engage in a service-learning programme.
Completion of service learning is based on student achievement of the five service-
learning outcomes.
All students are required to maintain and complete a service-learning portfolio as
evidence of their engagement with service learning throughout the programme and
of application of the five stages of service learning. While not formally assessed,
the portfolio gives students an opportunity to outline and reflect on their service-

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learning experience. This provides the school with evidence that the student has
achieved the five service-learning outcomes.
As part of the programme, students engage in three interviews with their service-
learning coordinator. These formal interviews are documented by the coordinator
and the student as further evidence of student achievement of the five outcomes.
 The first interview is at the beginning of the service-learning programme.
 The second interview is at the end of the first year of the service-learning
programme.
 The third interview is at the end of the service-learning programme. The
provision of service learning is expected to run concurrently with the other
components of the CP core.
What interview process do we have in place at #?

9. The career-related context.

With many students, it may be appropriate for the service-learning plans and
identified need to be correlated to their career-related studies. For some
students, exploring a distinct or different area of interest may develop or provoke
new avenues for exploration and open further career opportunities. In most
service-learning experiences, students will come into contact with people in
diverse roles in society and learn about careers that may be new to them, or that
they may experience and understand in new ways.
Ideas for linking service learning to the career related studies.

10. Links with the personal and professional skills course.

The relationship between personal and professional skills and service learning is
relevant and useful to the students.
Each of the five themes of personal and professional skills has relevance to service
learning.
 Personal development: forms the basis for self-reflection and explores the
skills required to organize and manage time, make decisions and manage
change.
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  Intercultural understanding: the exploration of cultures and cultural
perspectives, including one’s own, enables students to be effective in
diverse settings.
 Effective communication: focuses on interpersonal communication, writing,
presentation and IT skills.
 Thinking processes: explores the topics of ethical thinking, critical thinking,
creative thinking, problem-solving and lateral thinking.
 Applied ethics: the IB’s commitment to principled action requires students
to take responsibility for their actions and consequences and act with
integrity and honesty.
Incorporating aspects of the personal and professional skills course in service
learning would provide further relevance to the students of the interrelated nature
of the components of the CP core.
How can we create concrete links between service learning and the Personal
and professional skills at #?
Personal development:

Intercultural understanding:

Effective communication

Thinking processes:

Applied ethics:

11. Links to academic studies.

Service learning should be associated wherever possible with students’ academic
studies. Service learning provides an ideal vehicle to make tangible the nature,
content and knowledge of the students’ academic studies.
Subject-specific teachers can assist students in developing service-learning
experiences by deepening their understanding related to a relevant issue identified
by the students. Students can utilize their classroom time to investigate and
research issues associated with their subject area, leading to planning and action
of service-learning experiences.

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Teachers can deliberately integrate the process of service learning within
academic courses to advance understanding through depth of inquiry and
application of knowledge and skills to meet an authenticated need.
When integrated within an academic class, students can participate in the five
stages of service learning:
 investigation
 preparation
 action
 reflection
 demonstration.
By doing so, students become more capable of transferring this process to an idea
of their own design. Service learning is known to enliven academics as students see
how their studies can be readily applied in the community.
Links to service learning in the curriculum
We can create a survey for all IB and A-Level subjects asking teachers to
identify parts of the curriculum with links to service activities (this can also
be done for CAS)

12. The international dimension.

Service-learning builds on other international dimensions experienced by CP
students. They are encouraged to view aspects of their service learning in a broad,
global context. They are challenged to become internationally minded and
culturally aware. Students should be reminded, however, that often it is just as
important to look closer to home. Working with people from different social and
cultural backgrounds in the local context can do as much to foster international-
mindedness and mutual understanding as international service-learning
experiences or projects.

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 Ideas on making students aware of the links to international dimensions—
including how helping local communities can be linked to international ones.

13. Service-learning experiences.

A service-learning experience is when the student engages in an event that
involves service learning. It can be a single event or may be an extended series of
events.

A meaningful service-learning programme must be more than unplanned or single

experiences. A series of planned service-learning experiences following the five
stages of service learning is expected for a more engaging and comprehensive
service-learning programme. When possible, interactions best occur with a
regularity that builds and sustains relationships for the mutual benefit of all.
Established experiences we already have at #.

Ideas for new experiences.

14. The 5 stages of service learning.

The five stages of service learning (adapted from Five stages of service learning,
Kaye 2010) offer a helpful and supportive framework and continuum of process;
this is the expected approach for service learning.
Note that curriculum is at the core of this service-learning model. As students
progress through each of these stages, they draw upon the skills and knowledge
gained from their academic subjects to support their service-learning experiences.
When teachers integrate the service-learning process as part of an academic class,

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the curriculum is central—both the knowledge and skill development—as they also
adhere to these five stages.
The five service-learning stages are:
1. Investigation: Students participate in social analysis of a selected issue,
with identification and confirmation of a community need, often with a
designated community partner. Having an inventory of interests, skills,
talents and areas for personal growth, students are able to make choices
based on their priorities and abilities and the designated need.
2. Preparation: Students acquire and develop the knowledge and skills needed
for deeper understanding of the issues that prepares them for purposeful
action. Students design a service plan appropriate to the identified need,
with clarification of roles and responsibilities, resource requirements and
timelines to successfully implement the plan. Any community partners are
likely to be consulted.
3. Action: Students implement the plan through direct service, indirect
service, advocacy or research. Their service may be a combination of one or
more of these types of service. Students may work individually, with
partners or in groups.
4. Reflection: Students examine their thoughts, feelings and actions applied to
the context of self, community and the world. With service learning,
reflection often occurs with greater frequency as students identify
significant moments generated by new situations and insights.
5. Demonstration: Students make explicit what and how they learned and
what they have accomplished, for example by sharing their service
experience through their service-learning portfolio, or with others in an
informal or formal manner. Through demonstration and communication,
students solidify their understanding and evoke responses from others.

How do we integrate the service-learning process at #?

How do we demonstrate the 5 service-learning stages at #?

Investigation:

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 Preparation:

Action:

Reflection:

Demonstration:

15. The service-learning model.

These service-learning stages ensure that students gain experience with a reliable
yet flexible structure that they can then apply with confidence to future situations
in many aspects of their life.

There are three parts in the service-learning model:

1. The core is the curriculum; the service-learning experience draws from and
enhances academic learning.
2. The surrounding circles and arrows represent the process with four key
parts: investigation, preparation, action and reflection (occurring
intermittently in response to significant experiences).
3. The outer circle has two parts and guides students in summarizing their
experience: reflection and demonstration. For all service-learning
experiences, students begin with investigation.

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During ongoing service-learning experiences, the action stage may lead students
back to investigation or preparation as they further develop, expand and
implement new or related ideas to address the same or different aspects of the
identified need.
As the action draws to a conclusion, this leads to the outer circle of summative
reflection and demonstration.
How do we raise awareness of three-part service-learning model at #?

16. Four types of action.

The four types of action are:
 Direct service: Students engage directly with the people, environment or
animals. Examples: Students could undertake one-on-one tutoring, develop
a garden in partnership with refugees, or work in an animal shelter.

 Indirect service: Though students do not see the recipients of indirect

service, they have verified their actions will benefit the community or
environment. Examples: Students could redesign a non-profit organization’s
website, write picture books to teach a language, or nurture tree seedlings
for planting.

 Advocacy: Students speak on behalf of an issue of public interest in order to

promote awareness and understanding through dispersal of accurate
information that may lead to others taking action. Examples: Students could
lead an awareness campaign on hunger, perform a play about replacing
bullying with respect, or create a video about sustainable water solutions.

 Research: Students collect information from various sources, analyse data

and report on a topic of importance to influence policy or practice.
Examples: Students may conduct environmental surveys to influence their
school, contribute to a study of animal migration, compile effective means
to reduce litter in public spaces, or conduct social research by interviewing
people on topics such as homelessness, unemployment or isolation.
Examples of actions we have Examples of possible future
in place at #. actions.
Direct service:

Indirect
service:
Advocacy:

Research:

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When making choices about action, an important consideration is the community
being served. A key purpose and intent of service learning in the CP is for students
to experience and understand the local community outside the school. However, if
authentic needs are found within the school, it is possible for the school to be the
beneficiary of student action, which may then prepare students for further action
within the larger community.

17. Approaches to service learning.

Ongoing service learning: When investigating a need that leads to a plan of action
implemented over time, students develop perseverance and commitment. They
observe how their ideas and actions build on the contributions of others to effect
change. Their reflections may show deeper awareness and knowledge of societal
issues.
School-based service learning: While students are encouraged to participate in
meaningful service that benefits the community outside school, they may well find
appropriate service-learning opportunities within the school. In all cases an
authentic need must be verified that can be met through student action. Identified
needs met within school may prepare students for further action in the larger
community. For example, by tutoring within the school, students may then be
better prepared to tutor at a community centre.
Community-based service learning: Participating in service learning within the
local community advances student awareness and understanding of social issues
and solutions. Single incidents of engagement with individuals in a service-learning
context can lack depth and meaning. Interactions involving people best occur with
a regularity that builds and sustains relationships for the mutual benefit of all. For
example, rather than making one visit to a retirement facility as a single service-
learning experience, students could arrange regular visits over a longer period of
time, and in doing so find that their efforts are valued and have reciprocal impact.
Immediate need: In response to a disaster, students often want to take immediate
action. Typically, they quickly attempt to assess the need and devise a planned
response. Later, to provide greater context, the students can be reminded and
encouraged to further investigate the issue to better understand underlying
causes. With increased knowledge, students may commit to ongoing assistance, for
example by getting involved in community initiatives regarding an environmental
issue.
Fundraising: For fundraising to have meaning and purpose, students must initially
develop their understanding of the cause and issues being addressed and then
choose the organization to support. Students can draw from their interests, skills
and talents to plan the method and manner of fundraising. Ideally, students will
communicate directly with the organization and establish accountability for funds

19
raised. Sharing the rationale for the fundraising is essential in order to educate
others and advocate for the chosen cause. Students can also support their financial
contribution through direct service, advocacy or research forms of service-learning
action.
Social entrepreneurship: A social entrepreneur is someone who adopts a business
approach towards addressing authentic community needs. Participation in
problem-solving of authentic societal issues creates the potential to develop civic
knowledge, community awareness and skills, all necessary for social
entrepreneurship. Currently, the term also indicates taking action that maintains
environmental sustainability rather than depleting natural resources. For example,
a social entrepreneur may transform an idea such as distributing food to people in
need through creating gardens for communities to have an ongoing food source
while teaching job skills for people to earn a more stable income. By engaging in
purposeful actions, social entrepreneurs can use service learning to strengthen
business skills that represent their personal values and beliefs as they help their
community. Examples of young social entrepreneurs provide inspiration and role
models.
International service: Students are encouraged to participate locally in-service
learning before considering service-learning opportunities outside their country.
Students benefit most from serving in an international context when able to make
clear links to parallel issues in their local environs and they understand the
consequences of their actions. When participating in international service learning,
students must understand the background and the circumstances of an identified
and authenticated need to support their involvement. When direct communication
with an overseas community is not possible, students could cooperate with an
outside agency. Schools must ensure that commercial providers, if used, act in
accordance with the aims of the IB mission statement and service-learning
requirements. Schools must also undertake risk assessment to ensure the safety of
students.
Volunteerism: Students often volunteer in service-learning experiences organized
by other students, the school or an external group. In such cases, it helps if
students are already familiar with the need and its context, as this will increase
the likelihood that their contribution will have personal meaning and value. Using
the five service-learning stages prior to volunteering is highly recommended.
Service learning arising from the curriculum: Teachers plan units with service-
learning opportunities in mind, leading to student action. For example, while
studying freshwater ecology in environmental systems and society, students could
decide to monitor and improve a local water system.

Examples of approaches Examples of possible

we have in place at #. future approaches.
Ongoing service
learning:

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 School-based service
learning:
Community-based
service learning:
Immediate need:

Fundraising:

Social entrepreneurship:

International service:

Volunteerism:

Service learning arising

from the curriculum:

18. Reflection in service-learning.

Being reflective is an attribute of the IB learner profile: “We thoughtfully consider
the world and our own ideas and experience. We work to understand our strengths
and weaknesses in order to support our learning and personal development.”
Reflection is central to building a deep and rich experience in service learning.
Developing a culture of reflection helps students to recognize and understand how
to be reflective, as well as to decide the best methods and appropriate timing.
Student learning is more effective when it is enhanced by reflection. Reflection
enables students to explore skills, strengths, limitations and areas for further
development.
The overarching intention of reflection in service learning includes the opportunity
for students to:

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  deepen learning
 consider relevance of experience
 explore personal and group values
 recognize the application of knowledge, skills and attributes
 identify strengths and areas for development
 gain a greater understanding of self and others
 place experience in a larger context
 generate relevant ideas and questions
 consider improvements in individual and collective choices and actions
 transfer prior learning to new situations
 generate and receive constructive feedback
 develop the ongoing habit of thoughtful, reflective practice.

Guiding reflection
Students can be guided in reflection by way of the following processes.
Defining reflection: engage students in clarifying what reflection is not and what
it is, highlighting the key elements of reflection and giving examples.
Reflection is Reflection is not
 honest  forced
 personal  right or wrong
 done in many different ways  good or bad
 sometimes difficult  marked or graded
 sometimes easy  difficult
 sometimes creative  copying what someone else said
 building self-awareness predictable
 necessary for learning  to be judged by others
 what I did, combined with how I  only a summary of what
felt surprising happened done to please
 helpful for planning someone else
 done alone or with others  a waste of time
 about thoughts, feelings and  only written
ideas adding perspective  only discussion
 only led by teachers

Modelling reflection: provide examples of what reflection can look like and ways
it can occur.
Leading reflection: engage students in diverse reflective practices that cater for
different learning styles and personal preferences.
Sharing reflections: share current and past student reflections (with the student’s
permission).

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Provoking reflection: provide a series of questions, statements or experiences
that elicit thoughtful responses from students.

Four elements of reflection

1. Describing what happened: students retell their memorable moments,
identifying what was important or influential, what went well or was
difficult, obstacles and successes.
2. Expressing feelings: students articulate emotional responses to their
experiences. The following two elements can expand perspective.
3. Generating ideas: rethinking or re-examining choices and actions increases
students’ awareness about themselves and their situations.
4. Asking questions: questions about people, culture, processes or issues
prompt further thinking and ongoing inquiry.
How is reflection designed at #?

Feedback on reflection
Following reflection, feedback from teachers, coordinators or peers is strongly
recommended. Feedback provides acknowledgment, confirmation or clarification
of students’ understanding and insight, and opportunities for further development.
Feedback can take many forms, for example as part of an informal or formal one-
to-one or group discussion, paired peer conversation, or a written response (eg to
a blog posting). Students may also suggest their own preferred method for
receiving feedback.
Students may wish to keep certain reflections private. It is therefore
recommended that students decide which of their reflections to share with others.
How do we provide feedback on reflection?

23
 Managebac?
Interviews?

Time for reflection

Purposeful reflection is about quality rather than quantity.
When students identify moments worthy of reflection, they recognize and value
reflection as a personal choice. Students should determine key moments during the
learning process that inspire reflection. Otherwise, if a set number of reflections is
required, reflection can feel like an obligation, which is contrary to the purpose of
reflection in service learning. The following approaches may be helpful.
 Students can choose significant moments as the basis for reflection, for
example when they: – are learning something new – have mastered a new
skill – are confronted with a particular challenge – experience new or
heightened emotions – succeed in realizing a particular achievement.
 Students reflect during or at the end of a service-learning experience or
series of service-learning experiences, to identify important moments,
discuss a possible learning outcome, recognize personal growth and
achievements and plan for their next service-learning experience.
 Students engage in group reflection with their peers to discover shared
insights.
 Students reflect at the beginning, during and at the end of a series of
service-learning experiences. This enables students to deliberate on such
elements as planning, opportunities, expectations, challenges, progress and
personal growth. Reflection offers students opportunities to understand the
concept, process and value of learning. With experiences that add meaning
and self-knowledge, students can adapt, adopt and integrate reflection into
a lifelong practice.
Together with students, discuss what might prompt a person to want to reflect on
their own and occasions when reflection might be useful. This changes the
emphasis from being teacher-led to being student initiated by choice. Note that
reflection experiences in groups can be beneficial and that students could also
plan ways to reflect with their peers.
At what times should reflection occur at #?

24
The forms of reflection
There are many different ways to conduct reflection. Student reflection may be
expressed through a written paragraph, a dialogue, a poem, a comic strip, a
dramatic performance, a letter, a photograph, a dance, a podcast, a video, a
collage, a blog, or may use any other media or other forms of expression that
students find most suitable for reflection.
Students should be able to identify forms of expression that have personal meaning
and best enable them to explore their experiences. For example, students might:
 take photographs during a service-learning experience and use these to
reflect in writing
 compose a song describing what they gained from a service-learning
experience
 dramatize a poem to emphasize an aspect of a service-learning experience.
 produce a short video summarizing a service-learning experience
 form a group and create a poster highlighting aspects of a shared service-
learning experience.
Students could consider which might be best to facilitate reflection on:
 themselves—their thoughts, ideas, values, feelings, ethics, opinions, actions
and hopes
 others—their peers, people they meet or interact with
 community—concerns, culture and values of their community (eg their
school or where they live), to gain insights and wider understandings
 society and the world—concerns, culture and values of their society and/or
the world, to gain insights and wider understandings.
How should students evidence their reflection?
Can we use Managebac for this?

19. Service-learning portfolio.

Students are expected to maintain and complete a service-learning portfolio as
evidence of
 their engagement with service learning
 their understanding and application of the five stages of service learning
 achievement of the five service-learning outcomes.
 how students have developed the attributes of the IB learner profile.

The service-learning portfolio is the demonstration, the fifth service-learning

stage, though students may also elect to participate in other forms of
demonstration.

25
The service-learning portfolio is used by students to
 plan their service-learning programme
 reflect on their experiences
 provide evidence of their learning.

The portfolio is regularly discussed during the three interviews between the
student and coordinator, and likely at other times that the student and
coordinator may meet more informally. Appropriate encouragement and advice
can be documented and noted in the portfolio.
The service-learning coordinator must ensure that students keep their service-
learning portfolio up to date and relevant, and will check the portfolio regularly.
If any concerns arise, these should be noted in the service-learning portfolio and
appropriate action taken at the earliest opportunity.
The service-learning portfolio
 Is used to showcase the students’ service-learning experience and
participation
 should be viewed as a source of pride for the students.

Students could have the choice of how the service-learning portfolio is assembled,
what they include and how it is shared. Individual student learning styles will
dictate the type of portfolio that they use:
 Digital.
 Online.
 Diary.
 Journal.
 Scrapbook.
 a combination of these.
Students are encouraged to explore the different options available to them.
The service-learning portfolio is a summation of the students’ service learning. It
could also be a valuable addition to a student’s résumé or CV for a prospective
employer or educational institution.

26
The service-learning portfolio is not formally assessed by the IB. While the IB does
not require any particular format for the service-learning portfolio, a useful three-
part structure could include the following sections:
 Profile.
 Experiences.
 Evidence.
Each section would be intended to assist students to better understand their
engagement with service learning, reflect on their experiences and provide
evidence of their experiences.
 Profile
o Students include their personal interests, skills and talents, areas for
growth, plans and goals for their service-learning programme.

o At the start of service learning, students map their interests and

abilities to identify possible service-learning experiences. A
consideration of how a student’s personal value system aligns with
the values expressed by the IB, with a particular focus on the IB
learner profile, could also be included when developing a student
profile. Through an understanding of the service learning aims,
students will be able to identify both short term and long-term goals
in their service-learning programme.

 Experiences
o This section demonstrates that students have actively engaged in
their individual service learning. It chronicles the students’ journey in
service learning, incorporating a variety of reflections, learning
moments, personal achievements and how they have put the five
stages of service learning into practice.
o Students could reflect on their involvement with the service-learning
outcomes and may extend their thoughts to future ambitions within
and outside the service-learning programme. All throughout service
learning, students can add their reflections regarding their ongoing
personal development and self-awareness.

 Evidence
o In this section, students collect evidence of their involvement and
achievements in service learning. This could include planning
27
 documents, letters, emails, certificates, acknowledgments of
participation and achievements, photographs, videos and so on.

Note: These three sections are offered only as an example of one way to organize
a portfolio. There are many ways, and students should have a role in determining
their most effective organizing structure.

Do we already have a service-learning portfolio at #? If so, how is it designed?

Here are ides from the IB:
https://ibpublishing.ibo.org/d_0_dpcp_tsm_1512_1s/apps/cp-sa/index.html?
lang=en&doc=d_0_dpcp_tsm_1512_1s_e&part=2&chapter=8

20. The Service-Learning project.

A service-learning project is a collaborative, well-considered series of sequential
service-learning experiences aiming to meet an authentic and confirmed
community need.
There is no requirement for students in the CP to undertake a service-learning
project. However, service-learning projects can be richly rewarding for the
students.
The primary purpose of a service-learning project is to ensure participation in
sustained collaboration, the development of students’ skills and the utilization of
students’ knowledge and understanding from their academic studies.
By undertaking a service-learning project, students learn to:
 show initiative
 demonstrate perseverance

28
  develop skills such as cooperation, problem-solving and decision-making.
All service-learning projects must use the five stages of service learning as a
framework.
Where possible, service-learning projects should involve working alongside
community members with ongoing communication. If an external facilitator such
as a non-government organization or a commercial provider is involved, care
should be taken to ensure that the facilitator acts in accordance with the IB
mission statement.
Collaboration
A service-learning project involves collaboration between a group of students or
with members of the wider community. Purposeful relationships between students
and community members leading to sustainable service-learning projects are
potentially the most rewarding for all concerned. As community needs change,
students’ responses should also evolve to meet these new circumstances.
Students work as part of a team, with all members being contributors. Through
collaboration students may discover the benefits of teamwork and of achievements
realized through an exchange of ideas and abilities.
Working collaboratively also provides opportunities for individual students to
enhance and integrate their personal interests, skills and talents into the planning
and implementation of service-learning projects.
Local service projects
 Local interactions allow for developing relationships, observing and
participating in sustained change and meeting challenges through
collaboration. From the local context, students can extend their thinking
and knowledge to understanding global issues.
 A local service-learning project that includes interaction with and
appreciation of diverse social or cultural backgrounds can increase
international-mindedness and engagement with issues of global significance.
International service projects
 International service-learning projects are acceptable if clear goals and
outcomes are established, understood and based on the expectation of
compelling benefits expected for all stakeholders.
 If a service-learning project is conducted outside the local context, it is
recommended that there is some form of continuation. For example,
students could research the community served and educate themselves
further about the issues involved, develop an advocacy programme for the
served community, or develop greater awareness of a related need in their
local community leading to some form of local action. This may inspire the
next group of service-learning students.
Important considerations

29
 If students conduct a service-learning project, they must take into account the
opinions and expectations of others involved and focus on meaningful and
authentic needs to ensure actions are respectful and reciprocal. Awareness of the
possible impact and consequences of the students’ actions should be part of the
planning process.
For any service-learning project, it is important to ensure that there is:
 a genuine need for the service-learning project, which has been stated and
agreed upon by the potential partners
 if required, a liaison officer who has a good relationship with the community
where the service-learning project is based
 an understanding of the level of student participation that is feasible in the
service-learning project
 a clear assessment of potential risks to participating students
 approval from the school administration for the service-learning project
 demonstration of how the five service-learning stages were followed
 an evaluation of the benefits of the service-learning project for all involved.

What types of service-learning projects do we undertake at #? How are they

designed? Do we have ones that can be repeated each year?

21. Service-Learning Interviews.

There must be a minimum of three interviews between students and their service-
learning coordinator/ adviser throughout the service-learning programme.
During the interviews:
 Progress is discussed.
 Encouragement and advice is given.
The interviews should occur at least twice in the first year of the CP and once in
the second year.
Feedback from these interviews is recorded by the service-learning coordinator.
The interviews are documented on a Service-learning progress Form (see examples
in the Service-Learning Teacher Support Material (TSM) or through some other
appropriate method such as a digital log.
The third interview is a summative discussion of the students’ engagement in
service learning and their achievement of the five service-learning outcomes. It is

30
recommended that a completion form is used (see examples in the Service-
Learning Teacher Support Material) or through some other appropriate method
such as a digital log.
The interviews should also be documented in the student portfolio.
The first interview
 This interview is conducted at the beginning of the CP. During this
interview, the service-learning coordinator/adviser ensures that students
understand:
 the expectations of the service-learning programme
 the service-learning outcomes and how the students might achieve these
outcomes
 the five service-learning stages
 the students’ interests and ideas for service-learning experiences
 the design for students’ service-learning portfolio. If students are already
aware of service learning, the interview can be used to confirm their
understanding and assist with any plans and ideas.
The second interview
This interview is normally held towards the end of the first year of the CP. During
this interview, the service-learning coordinator/adviser ensures that students:
 assess the progress being made in their service-learning programme
 determine personal commitment to the chosen service-learning experiences
 are engaging in the five stages of service learning
 are achieving the service-learning outcomes.
The students’ service-learning portfolio is used as a reference in this interview and
reviewed for evidence of achievement of any of the five service-learning
outcomes.
The third interview
This is the summative interview for service learning. It should occur near the end
of the CP.
In this interview the students:
 outline how they have achieved the learning outcomes for service learning
 review what has been enjoyable and personally gratifying
 discuss and evaluate their overall service-learning programme experience
 reflect on personal growth.
The students’ service-learning portfolio is used as a reference in this interview.
The interview may also provide the opportunity to discuss development of the
service-learning programme for future students based on the students’ personal
experiences.

31
 How is the interview process conducted at #?

How are the interviews recorded at #?

Ideas are on the Teacher support material:
https://ibpublishing.ibo.org/d_0_dpcp_tsm_1512_1s/apps/cp-sa/index.html?
lang=en&doc=d_0_dpcp_tsm_1512_1s_e&part=2&chapter=8

22. Risk Assessment.

The IB and the learner profile attributes encourage students to be risk-takers;
however, this does not mean that students or teachers should be encouraged to
take unnecessary risks or place themselves in danger.
The key to safely taking risks is having the ability to fully understand the nature of
the risk being taken and how to limit potentially dangerous outcomes where
necessary.
Schools need to strike the right balance between protecting students from risk and
allowing students to participate in service-learning experiences.
When planning a service-learning experience in which participants may be exposed
to hazards, it is important that risks are identified and assessed.
The IB requires that schools always comply with the pertinent local health and
safety laws and regulations both in and out of the classroom. In addition, the IB
provides the following guidelines on assessing the potential risk of a service-
learning experience.
 Schools and teachers should ensure adequate systems are in place to assess
and limit the risk of any service-learning experience.
 The school should ensure the staff organizing and supervising service-
learning experiences are fully supported throughout the risk assessment
process.
 In order to prevent risk assessment from becoming a barrier to service-
learning experiences, schools should develop risk assessment systems that
are proportionate to the level of risk. Although service-learning experiences
must be properly planned and assessed, experiences presenting a lower risk
level should be quicker and easier to assess and organize than higher-risk
experiences.
 Where risks are identified, schools should ensure that all potential
stakeholders (colleagues, students and parents) are informed both of the
risk and any precautions or contingency plans that will be implemented in
order to minimize the risk.
What is the risk assessment process at #?

32
 23. Resources.
Internal resources
School staff
 Teachers and ancillary staff could contribute to the service-learning
programme in a variety of ways in addition to the roles of service-learning
advisers and supervisors. Subject teachers can use their academic subjects
as a catalyst for service-learning experiences. They may also have a
particular skill, hobby or talent that will contribute to the students’
involvement in service-learning experiences. Teachers can also be
encouraged to integrate service learning as a teaching method and be
provided with supportive planning time and resources.
 To ensure the importance and relevance of service learning in the school
community, staff should be involved in the service-learning programme. A
school-wide understanding of the concept of service learning, the process
and related terms establishes the foundation of a successful programme.

Students
 Many students already have skills, knowledge and talents in many different
areas, including their personal interests and academic studies. By drawing
on these they can lead or make a valuable contribution to service-learning
experiences with other students in the school or in the local community.

Parents
 With their wide range of occupations and interests, parents can be a useful
resource for students. A survey of parents’ interests, skills and talents can
prove a valuable means to identify previously untapped resources. If parents
are involved in the service-learning programme, the service-learning
coordinator must ensure that the parents understand the key elements of
service-learning and their role.
How are the following used as resources at #? How can we build our resource
bank?
School staff
Students

33
 Parents

In-school resources
 Schools usually have a variety of useful places where events related to
service learning can take place, such as playing fields, swimming pools,
sports halls, gymnastics halls, auditoriums, assembly areas, art rooms, music
studios, classrooms, laboratories, computer rooms, kitchens, cafeterias,
technology workshops and gardens.
 School newsletters and websites can be used to promote understanding of
service learning and showcase student accomplishments.
How do we use in-school resources to support the service-learning process?

How do we use the following communication to raise the profile of service-

learning?
Newsletters?
Website?
Other social media?

External resources
Service learning encourages students to undertake a variety of diverse experiences
in a number of different external contexts. The service-learning coordinator should
remind students that their service learning is more than an interaction with just
one organization.
Organizations and agencies
 Organizations can provide contacts for deepening student understanding
about community issues, participate as partners in service learning plans,
and serve as hosts for students to assist in meeting the organization’s
identified needs. Examples of these are:
o non-government organizations
o social services, health services and government offices
o schools and universities
o local commerce and industry
o community groups
o youth groups, sports clubs, drama, music and art groups

34
 o embassies and consulates.

Press
 Local and national press could also be utilized as a resource. Coverage of
students’ service-learning experiences in the local or national press can
strengthen awareness of service learning in the local community and
recognize the involvement and contributions being made by students. This
may encourage other organizations to propose or support ideas for the
school’s service-learning programme.

How do we use the following external resources to support service learning

at #?
Non-government organizations
Social services, health services and
government offices
Schools and universities
Local commerce and industry
Community groups
Youth groups, sports clubs, drama,
music and art groups
Embassies and consulates.
The press

24. Roles and Responsibilities of the school and service-learning coordinator.

The school
The school must allocate sufficient resources to support the service-learning
programme. This includes the appointment of the service-learning team. The
service-learning team consists of a service-learning coordinator and, in larger
schools, service-learning advisers and/or service-learning supervisors to support
both the service learning coordinator and the students. Allocating time for the
professional development of the service-learning team should be a priority.
How do we ensure the following at #?
Evidence at #
The service-learning coordinator is
acknowledged and recognized in the
school.
The service-learning programme is
represented as a valued opportunity for
students.

35
 There is a school-wide commitment to
the service learning aims and learning
outcomes.
Time is allocated for the
administration of the service-learning
programme.
Time is allocated for the explicit
teaching of reflection and other
elements of the service-learning
stages.
Students and staff understand all
aspects of the service-learning
programme.
Parents are fully informed about the
service-learning programme and
student progress.
Service-learning opportunities are
identified for students in the event
that they are unable to do this
themselves.
Long-term relationships with
communities are developed for service-
learning opportunities.
There are opportunities for students to
choose their own service-learning
experiences.
There is time for students to receive
guidance and feedback from service-
learning coordinators and/or advisers.
Achievements are demonstrated in
service learning.
The service-learning coordinator
It is essential that the school appoints a service-learning coordinator, who acts as a
mentor to the students and advises on their service-learning programme. The
service-learning coordinator has a critical role and is key to the success of service
learning in the school.
How do we ensure the following at #?
The service-learning coordinator… Evidence at #
educates others about service-learning
and oversees the effective
implementation of service-learning
experiences.
works directly with students, staff,
service-learning advisers and, if
available, service learning supervisors.
is responsible for reporting the
progress of students to the CP

36
 coordinator.

The service learning coordinator is also ultimately responsible for determining

whether students have met the service learning outcomes at the end of the CP,
and for reporting as required by the Handbook of procedures for the Career-
related Programme.
The service-learning coordinator has two specific areas of responsibility.

1. Implementation and How is this done at #?

advancement of the service-
learning programme to:

Familiarize students, colleagues,

parents and the wider community with
the process of service-learning.
Promote the importance of service-
learning to students, colleagues,
parents and the wider community.
Assist teachers who are interested with
the integration of service-learning into
their academic classes.
Identify safety issues (risk assessment
and child protection).
Develop a school-specific service-
learning handbook and resources.
Administer the service-learning budget
Manage service-learning records and
reports.
Periodically engage in interviews with
students.
Report on student progress to school
and parents.
Promote and publicize student
achievements in service-learning.
Develop and maintain service-learning
policy statements.
Provide leadership for the service-
learning team.
Provide professional development and
supervise service-learning advisers
where appropriate.
Inform and work with service-learning
supervisors where appropriate.
Ensure consistency across the service-
learning programme through ongoing
contact with service-learning advisers

37
and supervisors.
Inform and work with outside providers
on their involvement in service-
learning experiences.
Report completion/non-completion of
service-learning to the IB on IBIS.

2. Working directly with the How is this done at #?

students (if there are no service-
learning advisers) to:

Educate students on all aspects of the

service-learning programme
Educate students on the meaning and
purpose of the service-learning
outcomes
Assist students with clarifying and
developing the attributes of the IB
learner profile
Support students in understanding
ethical concerns and international-
mindedness
Develop purposeful reflection skills
through individual interviews, group
discussions and teaching strategies (see
the Service-learning TSM for examples)
Provide feedback on student
reflections
Assist students in identifying personal
and group goals
Meet with a service-learning student
regularly to discuss goals and
achievements
Provide ongoing guidance and support
to students
Monitor the range and balance of
experiences undertaken by individuals
Advise and monitor progress towards
meeting the service-learning outcomes
Periodically review students’ service-
learning portfolios
Meet with service-learning students in
three formal documented interviews.

38
 24. Service-learning adviser.
 A team of service-learning advisers under the guidance of the service
learning coordinator is highly recommended in schools with a large number
of students. This is because working with individual students on their service
learning takes time and requires personal knowledge of the students.
 It is essential for the service learning adviser to be aware of the importance
of service learning in the CP and to be familiar with all elements of service
learning.
 When service learning advisers are appointed, they provide the vital ongoing
contact for students in place of the service learning coordinator.
 It is essential for service learning advisers to have sufficient contact time
with students. The adviser’s responsibilities are the same as the two specific
areas of responsibility of a service learning coordinator outlined above.

Roles and responsibilities of the service learning supervisor

The service learning supervisor assists, offers guidance and oversees the students’
service learning experiences when needed.
A supervisor may not be necessary if students are able to undertake a service
learning experience without assistance. Students should take responsibility for
their own service learning experiences where possible and be provided with
opportunities to report on their own attendance and participation.
The school should consider the nature of the experience and decide whether a
supervisor is required to guide and assist the students, to ensure safety and to
provide feedback on student involvement to the school.

Service-learning supervisors can be:

 teachers
 non-teaching members of the school or wider community
 volunteers with the skills and/or knowledge of the service-learning
experience being undertaken.
Service-learning supervisors should:
 be familiar with the relevant elements of the service learning programme
 be responsible for student safety and risk-management procedures
 provide students with guidance, support and feedback on the service
learning experience
 encourage reflection
 comment on the students’ engagement with the service-learning experience
if required.
Do we have service-learning advisors at #?

39
 If so, how are they trained to meet their responsibilities?

25.Service-Learning Handbook
A service-learning coordinator may provide students with a service-learning
handbook specific to the school. It would be of benefit to the student to have a
school-based guide to service learning. Elements of this guide and documents from
the Service-Learning Teacher Support Material (TSM) can be helpful in assembling
the handbook. It should explain programme elements and expectations, including
responsibilities, to both students and their parents/guardians.
As the programme evolves, students can contribute their gained knowledge to this
handbook for the benefit of future students.
What can be included in a service-learning handbook?
A summary of this guide
The portfolio
Examples of different types of service.

References
https://resources.ibo.org/cp/subject-group/Core/resource/11162-38307/data/
d_0_carec_gui-16_1512_1s_e.pdf

40