Abstract
The current study examined student experiences (n = 111) in an undergraduate social work (BSW) research seminar in which a service learning (SL) project was the primary focus. Student groups of approximately six or seven worked with local agencies to develop a research plan for the agency. Students found the SL project to be a positive experience. The SL outcomes resulted in a greater appreciation of research, including a greater interest in and comfort with conducting research. Results also are compared to a similar SL project in which the entire class, rather than a small group, worked with one agency. The implications are discussed.
Acknowledgments
The author thanks Steve Kapp, whose support and encouragement made conducting these service learning projects a less daunting task. Thanks also to Lori Messinger for her review of prior drafts of this manuscript and to the many students whose feedback and hard work have made this research possible.