Students should become more aware of the concept of service learning becuase it is extremely beneficial for not only the student but the group that is involved in the experience. The National Service-Learning Clearinghouse states, "Through service-learning, young people—from kindergarteners to college students—use what they learn in the classroom to solve real-life problems. They not only learn the practical applications of their studies, they become actively contributing citizens and community members through the service they perform" (para. 2). Students are able to become an active member of the community while solving real-life problems that other members of the community experience. I find this extremely important to teach to students because some are not aware of what their community is going through. 

Throughout the semester we have had the opportunity to work with different elementary schools around the area. while working in the field I had the opportunity to participate in service learning, and found it extremely motivational and rewarding. While volunteering at a local elementary school during their carnival I was able to create books with young students for them to read at home. Many of the students stated how excited they were to read once they got home. By giving the children the oopportunity to create their own books, it showed that more members of the community would be reading at home. This carnival did not cost the school much but was an extremely rewarding experience. I also created different games using computer software for my practicum teacher to use with her students. In total I create 450 seperate cards that were incorporated in her math lessons throughout the year. I enjoyed contributing to my practicum placement and as a future educator I encourage students to participate in service-learning.

Reference:

Learn and Serve America. (2012). What is service learning?. Retrieved from  http://www.servicelearning.org/what-service-learning