Reflections on the Impact of Service-Learning/Experiential Education for the Field of Human Services

This article will address the importance of a holistic approach for human services by exploring the concept of community and utilizing service-learning/experiential education in human service courses. ACCESS (Achievement, Collaboration, Community, Education, Standards, and Services) will be covered by illustrating how service-learning/experiential education is a great pedagogy for collaborative partnerships between the university, community, students and faculty. Important elements of service learning/experiential education will be reviewed to provide a better understanding of the concepts. Reflections of the service experience will be included from students, community agency and faculty. Survey results will be utilized to demonstrate how service-learning/experiential education helps students achieve skills and a better understanding of course concepts while helping meet needed services in the community.