Critical Thinking in Students' Service-Learning Experiences

Abstract

Service learning combines community service with academic learning. Students learn and develop critical thinking through active participation in organized service experiences. The purpose of this study was to describe the growth of 94 nursing students' critical thinking through service-learning experiences. Results revealed two major themes: development of both professional and community perspectives. Outcomes of the study provide a framework for developing service-learning experiences across the curriculum.

Key Words:

• service learning
• critical thinking
• nursing
• experiential education
• student development

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Carol A. Sedlak

Carol A. Sedlak is an associate professor, Margaret O. Doheny is a professor, Nancy Panthofer is an instructor, and Ella Anaya is an instructor, all at Kent State University's College of Nursing, in Ohio.