Implementing service-learning in elementary E1 Montessori setting

Author / Creator

Smith, Michelle L., author

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Summary

"Literature on service-learning as an effective and developmentally appropriate methodology in the primary elementary setting is scarce. This action research examined a.) The impacts of implementin...

"Literature on service-learning as an effective and developmentally appropriate methodology in the primary elementary setting is scarce. This action research examined a.) The impacts of implementing service-learning with first, second, and third grade students and b.) The shared components of Montessori and service-learning pedagogy: curricular integration, intrinsic motivation, hands-on cooperative learning, student voice, and service to others. The study took place in a mixed age class of six to nine-year old students in a public Montessori school over a 12-week period. 20 students collaborated with three local community partners to restore a city rain garden, start seedlings for a local community garden, and plant native plants at a prairie habitat restoration site. The Montessori botany, cosmic education fundamental needs, and character education curricula were integrated into the service-learning projects. Through qualitative analysis of observations, field notes, interviews, surveys, and use of focus groups during each of the 5 states of service-learning, the study found service-learning provided a framework for connecting lower elementary students to their local community in a meaningful way while addressing real community needs. Results also confirmed the integration of academic curriculum with community partnerships improved student engagement in school and learning."--Leaf 2.

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