Breaking the time barrier: helping students "find the time" to do intergenerational service-learning

Area of Science:

• Education
• Sociology

Background:

• Service-learning is an educational approach combining academic study with community service.
• Optional service-learning programs face unique challenges compared to mandatory ones.
• Student time constraints are a significant barrier to participation in optional service-learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the barriers to participation in optional service-learning programs.
• To investigate the impact of time constraints on student engagement in service-learning.
• To explore strategies for overcoming time barriers in service-learning.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative data collection from students over two semesters.
• Analysis of student-reported barriers to service-learning participation.
• Exploration of student experiences with time management in service-learning.

Main Results:

• Students cite 'not having enough time' as a primary barrier to service-learning participation.
• Time constraints deter participation or hinder completion of required hours.
• Many students work part-time or full-time alongside their studies, exacerbating time issues.

Conclusions:

• Addressing student time constraints is crucial for successful optional service-learning programs.
• Strategies are needed to help students integrate service-learning into demanding schedules.
• Further research should explore effective time management interventions for service-learning.