| The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of teachers, team members, and students as to the effectiveness of a service-learning program connecting to the curriculum. This mixed method study focused on perceptions of how the program at this school was conducted, the design and evaluation methods used and how these three groups perceived the program as an effective tool to connecting to the curriculum. The participants in this study were teachers, Leadership team members and 5th grade students at a small, rural elementary school. A self-assessment survey was distributed to 37 teachers and an age appropriate survey was distributed to 105 students. These instruments were useful in determining their perceptions of the program. Interviews were conducted with team members and 5th grade teachers. Data from these sources were triangulated to show comparisons in perceptions between the three groups. Analysis of the data showed differences in the perceptions of the three groups. The qualitative data provided information for opportunities to improve the school's program. Quantitative data from Section III Policy and Parameters and Section IV Practice and Pedagogy, in the teacher survey had significant results comparatively. This suggests that the organization of the program had an impact on the perceptions of the participants, which would be consistent with prior research on service-learning effectiveness. As a result of these findings, it is recommended that additional training be offered in the school and state standards be designed for elementary level schools. |
