A Consulting Model of Global Service Learning

Service Learning is increasingly common in collegiate Computer Science and Information Systems curricula. Typically students work in real-world situations, applying their skills to address authentic community needs. Students' reports of learning benefits and positive feelings about their experiences are well recorded in the literature on service learning. The value of project outcomes to the community partner are often assumed and less commonly assessed. Recent research indicates that partner outcomes may often be less than satisfactory, and in fact, even detrimental when students execute 'one off' projects requiring resources, skills and maintenance that community partners may not be able to provide. This report describes a consulting model of service learning that highlights sustainable solutions as a key objective. Results from repeated service learning engagements with a global partner organization illustrate application of the consulting model.