IMPACT OF AN URBAN SERVICE LEARNING EXPERIENCE ON AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION STUDENTS

Abstract

As society becomes more diverse, it is critical that educators provide multiple levels and types of experiences for our students to engage and interact in a multicultural environment. Due to institutional, geographic, and/or departmental demographics, many collegiate students can complete their baccalaureate degree program with limited interaction with individuals from different cultures or ethnic groups. This study utilized a service learning activity as a bridge between a minority-based collegiate organization and an adolescent leadership development class. Participants provided input and reflection on their participation in this event. Four themes: fear of the unknown, moving out of your comfort zone, group activity, and personal impact, emerged from this study that will be used to shape and direct future multicultural service learning activities. Findings support the use of service learning as a positive vehicle to expose students to individuals from different cultures and as a model for future multicultural learning activities with youth based organizations.