CHALLENGES OF SERVICE-LEARNING IN TENNESSEE 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: A DELPHI STUDY

Abstract

Service-learning is growing in popularity as a methodology for teaching youth life skills and 4-H project knowledge. Through a modified Delphi technique, a panel comprised of 4-H’ers, volunteers, and agents in Tennessee identified challenges of utilizing service-learning to fulfill the mission of the state’s 4-H Youth Development program. The subpanels of 4-H youth, volunteers, and Extension agents found that primary challenges of conducting service-learning projects through 4-H Youth Development include coordination, working around everyone’s schedule, and funding. There were some differences among the subpanels’ lists and prioritization of the challenges. The study has implications for 4-H leaders, both youth and adult, who employ service-learning as a teaching tool.