ABSTRACT
The field of service learning has evolved from viewing students only as participants in and beneficiaries of service learning to viewing them as partners in and co-creators of all aspects of the service learning enterprise as well. This chapter highlights student service learning partnerships of many types, including student-student, student-faculty, student-administrator, student-community resident, and student-community organization staff. Dewey's work is often considered foundational for service learning because his pragmatism ties knowledge to experience, his progressive political vision connects individuals to society, his student-centered educational theory intentionally combines reflection with action, and his writings on ethics emphasize democracy and community. High-quality service learning that yields benefits for all parties involved must be built on a solid foundation of carefully developed partnerships.
