Service-learning is a form of experiential learning whereby
students apply content knowledge, critical thinking and good
judgment to address genuine community needs. The Minnesota
Department of Education seeks to increase the number of learners
in service experiences that provide immediate relevance to
academic studying as well as opportunities for learners to
demonstrate how to solve real-world problems. What is Service
Learning? Cleaning up a riverbank is an example of service.
Sitting in a science classroom, looking at water samples under a
microscope is an example of learning. Science students meeting
state standards by taking samples from local water sources, then
analyzing the samples, documenting the results, presenting the
scientific information to a pollution control agency, and
reflecting on the impact these results may have on future
pollution control issues and our own behaviors and attitudes is
an example of service-learning. Districts across the state
continue to integrate service-learning into