Service Learning and Character Education: Walking the Talk. Linking Learning with Life.

Overview & Synopsis

This guidebook is designed to provide teachers, schools, parents, and other community leaders with the needed ideas, strategies, and resources to combine service learning and character education in meaningful educational activities for children and young people. The booklet contains seven short sections that provide an overview of character education and service learning and suggest ways to integrate the two processes in the school setting. The following topics are covered: (1) the essential elements of character education; (2) the connection between service learning and character education; (3) the key to effective character education; (4) youth leadership in character education programs; (5) the essential elements that promote character development; (6) impacts that should be expected from character education programs; and (7) the importance of character education. The guide also contains a resource section that lists five service learning organizations, seven character education organizations, five selected readings, and five references. (KC)