Academic bridge to the community: the ABCs of a service-learning model

The purpose of this report is to outline the process, obstacles, and outcomes for the development and successful implementation of a service-learning experience between the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Dallas. The rationale for initiation of the partnership is outlined, and curriculum planning concerns and integration are presented. These include development of community partnerships, identification of curricular placement, and development of academic and community roles, including didactic and clinical objectives for the participants. The importance of understanding the service-learning philosophy and evaluation of the student and community impact is emphasized. Outcomes report students' assessments encompassing issues of both prior and future didactic education, development of clinical skills and problem solving, and evaluation of professional and personal issues. It is suggested that this model of service learning project has the ability to be implemented across a wide spectrum of allied health care curricula.