Service-Learning Australia

Perhaps the most critical thing to remember when starting to plan a celebration is the importance of student direction in service-learning, so encourage students to do as much of the organizing as possible.

What do we want to achieve?

The celebration is not just a presentation of certificates while sharing a pizza; it is a meaningful demonstration of what students and their community partners have achieved through service-learning.   You and your students need to decide the appropriate balance of celebration and demonstration activities at the recognition event.

At the start of the project, there were:

• Clearly defined service goals:  Consider how the achievement of these goals will be demonstrated and celebrated.
• Clearly defined academic and other learning goals:  Consider how the achievement of these goals will be demonstrated and celebrated.

Who will be invited?

Celebration events should focus on demonstrating what was achieved during service-learning and recognizing those who participated.  Involve students as much as possible in planning the event, which does not have to be expensive or elaborate.  Consider inviting teachers, parents, community members,  government representatives, local business leaders and the media. 

How will they be recognized?

Anyone who had a role in the project should be recognized for the part they played.  You and your students should think about the most appropriate recognition for each group and individual.  Some groups (for example, the aged), might appreciate a morning tea or lunch prepared by students.  For others, it will be public recognition – an article in a newspaper, recognition on a web site, or a display in the local library.  Other contributors could be nominated for an award, or your school might instigate an “Outstanding Service-Learning Partner” award.  Students might be recognized by being asked to address a meeting of the local service club, the Parents and Citizens Association, or next year’s group of service-learning students.   While recognition is important, it is also important to strike a balance, and not to “over-recognise”.

Over-recognising/under-recognising.

Sometimes it takes young people time to appreciate and settle into their service role, particularly if this kind of activity is outside their experience and the experience of their family and friends.   With perserverence, service-learning can give such students the opportunity to perform well above usual expectations.  However, to give equal “weight” to everyone’s contribution would not recognize outstanding dedication and high standards.  You need to be mindful about over-recognising or under-recognising contributions made.