Bernie Malabanan

Service learning offers educational benefits, but also is challenging. While it effectively fosters critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and civic engagement, it also requires long-term attention to sustain. Periodic dialogue with community leaders is essential. 

The evaluation of service learning requires both formative and summative assessment strategies to measure students’ engagement, achievement of learning outcomes, personal development, and contributions to the community. Students should be evaluated in terms of mastery of course content, the depth and quality of critical reflection, the acquisition of transferrable skills, and the impact of their work on community partners.

Service learning integrates community engagement with academic instruction. It enables students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. This approach fosters the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and reflective skills while deepening students’ understanding of complex social issues. Service learning promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, effective communication, and leadership development. It allows students to engage meaningfully with diverse populations, contribute to community development, and advocate for positive social change. 

Service learning promotes sense of community and interconnectedness. 

Building retention program should begin with assessment of what are the most common pressing issues that impact student's academic performance. Targeted interventions should be based from those assessed needs. 

When working with students, it is essential to do pre-work which includes review of their academic history, failed courses, grades in critical subjects, and performance in current coursework. This will give us some overview on what aspects need some work and targeted interventions. 

Recognizing the extent of how stress impacts the student's academic performance is an integral aspect of driving retention. Academic institutions should ensure that there are programs about stress management and mental health support in place for the students.

What approaches have you found successful in reaching to students who are non-responsive?

To improve retention rate, a comprehensive assessment of everything that impact the student's academic performance must be performed and targeted interventions must be initiated to ensure the student completes the term successfully.