Balance Across Boundaries: Service-Learning from an International Perspective

Service-Learning provides students, faculty and community partners an opportunity to go beyond classroom and laboratory instruction to the application of theoretical principles, and the development of civic responsibility by forging meaningful relationships with community partners. Service-learning also enables faculty to broaden the cultural sensitivity and international exposure of students by engaging students in directed, purposeful projects aimed at supporting the goals of both the college and the international partners. We have a unique opportunity in Exercise Science to make lasting changes and improve global conditions relating to student learning and the physical inactivity crisis. The purpose of this article is to define service-learning, describe different types of service-learning projects, and discuss service-learning opportunities in international settings.