Building our capacity for relational program planning in GSL: Lessons from an institution -community partner action research project

Abstract

The research on service learning notes the under use of program planning theory as an instrument to improve outcomes in Service Learning, not only for students but for our aspirational goals in host communities. Program planning, particularly, when focused on relationships, power and positionality, can further the ethical integrity of SL/GSL programs. In this session, our community-academic working group will discuss an ongoing action research project that brings together multiple NGO partners, student, faculty and higher education staff to examine their relational practices across four case examples and adapting three tools to support our learning and practice: Sandmann et al [2009] Service Learning Program Planning Model [SLPPM], Bringle et al’s (2010) Transformational Relationship Evaluation Scale (TRES) and our working group´s principles for ethical global community engagement [adapted from Lasker (2016). We will introduce our processes, findings and lessons learned.