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Updated: Jun 8, 2026
10:39
Qualitative and Quantitative Validation of Tools with Rating Scales Aimed at Assessing the Quality of University Service-Learning
Published on: August 29, 2025
Understanding student complaints in the service learning pedagogy
Howard Rosing1, Susan Reed, Joseph R Ferrari
1Irwin W. Steans Center for Community-Based Service Learning, DePaul University, Chicago, IL 60614, USA. hrosing@depaul.edu
American Journal of Community Psychology
|September 23, 2010
Summary
Student evaluations reveal persistent issues in service learning (SL) placements, including unprepared sites and scheduling conflicts. Addressing these concerns can improve student learning and community impact.
Area of Science:
- Educational research
- Community engagement studies
- Higher education pedagogy
Background:
- Service learning (SL) is a pedagogical approach combining community service with academic study.
- Understanding student experiences in SL is crucial for program improvement.
- Previous research highlights the importance of well-structured SL placements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key concerns and barriers faced by students in service learning courses.
- To analyze qualitative student feedback over a three-year period.
- To inform best practices for enhancing SL program effectiveness.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of over 2,200 written student evaluations from SL courses.
- Coding and reliability testing of student responses across three academic years.
- Identification of recurring themes related to student placement and experience.
Main Results:
- Students frequently expressed concerns regarding unprepared community placements.
- Issues with university-selected sites and logistical challenges like time and scheduling were common.
- These barriers to successful SL student work were consistently reported over the three years.
Conclusions:
- Student feedback highlights critical areas for improving service learning programs.
- Enhancing site preparedness, university-community communication, and logistical support is essential.
- Addressing these issues can optimize student learning and community contributions.
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