P-16+ Service Learning

Service Learning in Illinois

The State Role in 2002 and Beyond

In " Service Learning, " Antonelli and Thompson describe the state role for service learning as providing a clearinghouse for information about model programs and materials, acting as a catalyst for developing networks, promoting and "sustaining communication among individuals as well as evaluators, policymakers, and researchers." If the state's role increases from simply service learning to P-16+ service learning, then a number of new dimensions enter the picture. First, the efforts from the state level must be collaborative between all levels of education and they must be inclusive from two perspectives; the formal system of education and lifelong service learning.

The formal system of education and its P-16 components are well described in the P-16 links. A seamless system of education means stronger ties between all levels of education. Lifelong service learning includes individuals of all ages who are learning as they serve. Lifelong service learning is a "womb to the tomb" concept, that is, all ages can be involved. A last concept is intergenerational service learning which includes older adults and youngsters learning together as they serve.

In Illinois, the work at the state level has been accomplished through an informal coalition led by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and including the Illinois Community College Board, the State Superintendent, and the Deputy Governor for Education. An informal task force was convened in the fall of 1999 to begin to discuss a P-16+ service-learning initiative for the state. The task force conducted a survey, shared information, and planned the first formal P-16+ Service-Learning meeting that was held in August of 2000.

Purpose of the first P-16+ Service Learning Meeting

• To tell the stories about the good things happening in education through P-16+ service learning.
• To develop a common understanding of P-16+ service learning.
• To discuss the potential for service learning as a way of addressing the Illinois Learning Standards and preparing college -ready and work-ready graduates
• To discuss the ways that the community, particularly retirees, can work more closely to foster learning and citizenship

In 2000-2001, the state sponsored regional meetings to "foster a P-16+ system of service learning". In 2001 -2002, a series of three meetings was held at the state level targeting different people and different topics to spread the word about P-16+ service learning. The targets for the meetings were the media, older adults, and math and science.

Future P-16 service-learning activities will find direction in the Illinois Aligned Plan, led by the Illinois Community College Board and involving the three levels of education.

Service Learning in Illinois A P-16+ Partnership A March 2000 Report