Administrative Challenges of the Service Learning Lab Option with Non-Profits

Abstract

Service learning provides professors an opportunity to allow students to serve nonprofit organizations and share their experiences through reflection sessions and reports. Based on a literature review, administrators such as deans, department chairs, and service learning managers have many challenges and potential opportunities associated with service learning in coordinating professors, students, and clients. To further demonstrate the challenges, a case study of the service learning lab option from a western university highlights administrative issues and points to gaps in present service learning research. Suggestions for future research follow.