Case study analysis of service-learning institutionalization and student attitudes toward service-learning and future civic engagement

This study examines student attitudes toward service-learning and future civic engagement based on level of institutionalization at 4-year state universities with the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement. Using the Wingspread Principles as a guide for document analysis of each university_s application for the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, common themes were identified regarding service-learning and community engagement among the five institutions participating in the study. Analysis reveals all institutions participating in the study have a centralized service-learning office, strong university leadership support, and numerous community partnerships that designate all five universities as ???high??? institutionalization for service-learning and community engagement. Common themes among the universities may assist other institutions in service-learning and community engagement institutionalization. Student attitudes were examined in four categories: Attitude Toward Service, Social Responsibility, Expected Community Results, and As a Result of Participation. Findings indicate there is a difference in student attitudes in all four categories among ethnicities and universities. Findings reveal no difference in student attitudes in all four categories between genders.