Service Learning
Service Learning is recognised as a powerful pedagogical tool. By putting theory to practice in the real-world community sector, faculty and students report that teaching and learning are greatly enhanced.
Service Learning is recognised as a powerful pedagogical tool.
By putting theory to practice in the real-world community sector, faculty and students report that teaching and learning are greatly enhanced.
Students develop a deep understanding of the social context of their academic disciplines; something only possible outside a classroom.
We have seen that as a sense of civic awareness and social responsibility is fostered in students, their motivation expands with it. Students are more energised to explore important issues after the authentic experience of a Service Learning programme.
Service Learning in Ireland
We offer programmes throughout Ireland for both individuals and faculty-led groups. Our courses are designed to integrate academic learning with experiences that foster cultural immersion, identity exploration, and global engagement.
We tailor each programme to university requirements so academic credit is easily obtained and include space for reflection seminars. Home-stay accommodation is a key part of the programme as it further supports cultural exchange and immersion but other accommodation is also available.
For faculty-led programmes we suggest a minimum of one week and have flexible start dates based on your semester schedule!
Our current projects
Each project works with and for the community. Here are some selected examples:
- Working with a refugee centre
- Working with families and children connected to Autism
- Caring for the homeless and other communities
- Planting and tending a community garden and orchard
- Distribution of produce to local voluntary and charitable groups
- Upkeep on visitor & community facilities
- Contributing to amenity and conservation projects and outreach
- Engaging with heritage programmes designed for children or elderly locals
- Helping to maintain the outstanding natural and cultural beauty of a local town
Based on proposal to faculty
This programme is open to individual students also.
- Guaranteed placement
- Accommodation
- Breakfast & dinner
- 24/7 in country support
- Loads more! See all...
Airfare, mandatory health insurance, and spending money aren’t typically included.
- Talk to a member of our programme development team.
Janice Hawkins, PhD, RN
My experience with Learn International has greatly exceeded my expectations. I look forward to returning next year to build on our successes and cultivate long-term relationships with our community partners in Donegal.
I highly recommend Learn International to all faculty and study abroad departments building faculty-led programs in Ireland or elsewhere.”
Faculty-led Service Learning Programme
Old Dominion UniversityOur advisors are here to help.
Case Study - Indiana State University
Read how we designed a Customised Service Learning program for ISU combining several community projects, homestay accommodation, and heritage based excursions.
Learn International and Blackfriary created a two-week experience that was one of the best service-learning programs Indiana State University has offered in ten years.
Features of a Typical Programme
- Academic Integration into all programmes
- Complete in-country logistical management
- Applicant management and advising
- Local Transportation organised
- Pre-Departure Advising and Orientation
- Onsite Orientation and Welcome Event
- Option for In-Country Coordinators
- Accommodation or Host-families
- CPR and First-Aid Trained Coordinator 24/7 support
- Classroom or Lecture Space
- International Health Insurance
- Educational Field Trips and Cultural Excursions
- Industry and Company Site Visits
- Peer to Peer Workshops, Expert Guest Lecturers and Roundtable Discussions
- Volunteer and Service Learning Activities
- Programme Evaluations and Assessment
- Other Features as Requested
Our advisors are here to help you design your next customised programme for you & your students.
