Volume 1

Volume 1, Number 17

September 24, 2003

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17 pages879 K bytes

A Method for Enhancing the Success of Service-Learning Projects in Information Systems Curricula


Elizabeth Wilcox
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, NE 68182

Ilze Zigurs
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, NE 68182

Abstract: Service learning is an exciting and rapidly-growing phenomenon in colleges and universities in the United States. It provides experiential education while simultaneously addressing real needs in community organizations. Given the increasing popularity of service learning, a growing number of researchers have begun to study success factors and processes for service-learning courses. However, a systematic approach to success has yet to be seen. We begin by reviewing what is known about the critical success factors for service-learning projects. Based on the key issues identified, we develop a systematic method for approaching service-learning projects. Similar in concept to information systems development methods, our method for service learning is described in terms of its philosophy, roles, phases, techniques, and deliverables. Although broadly applicable to any kind of service-learning course, this method has particular relevance in information systems.

Keywords: service learning, experiential education, methodology, success factors

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Recommended Citation: Wilcox and Zigurs (2003). A Method for Enhancing the Success of Service-Learning Projects in Information Systems Curricula. Information Systems Education Journal, 1 (17). http://isedj.org/1/17/. ISSN: 1545-679X. (A preliminary version appears in The Proceedings of ISECON 2003: §3431. ISSN: 1542-7382.)