Linking classroom learning to the community through service learning.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology Nursing Education
• Community Health
• Service Learning Pedagogy

Background:

• Service learning is recognized for its dual benefit of student education and community service.
• Integrating practical experiences into nursing curricula is crucial for developing competent healthcare professionals.
• Gerontology nursing requires specialized knowledge and skills, often best learned through direct patient and community interaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of a service learning strategy in an undergraduate baccalaureate gerontology nursing course.
• To present the details of the service learning experience, including community partnerships and student reflections.
• To share evaluations from students and community partners, as well as faculty challenges, to guide future initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Incorporation of a structured service learning project within a gerontology nursing course.
• Establishment of partnerships with community agencies serving older adults.
• Collection of data through student reflections, student evaluations, and community agency staff evaluations.
• Documentation of faculty experiences and challenges encountered during implementation.

Main Results:

• Students gained practical experience in gerontology nursing through community service.
• Positive feedback was received from both students and community agency staff regarding the service learning experience.
• Faculty identified challenges related to coordination, student supervision, and ensuring consistent service quality.
• The service learning model effectively bridged academic learning with real-world application in gerontology.

Conclusions:

• Service learning is a valuable pedagogical approach for undergraduate gerontology nursing education.
• Successful implementation requires strong community partnerships and careful planning to address faculty challenges.
• This model enhances student learning, provides tangible community benefits, and prepares future nurses for geriatric care.