Academic Writing in Service-Learning

Abstract

The previous chapter was concerned with critical reflection: defining its meaning and role within service-learning; facilitating its use; and examining its potential consequences. This chapter delves deeper into this vital aspect of service-learning by focusing on how critical reflection can be ensnared from the ephemeral and abstract world of unseen thought to the material world through the medium of academic writing. This chapter demonstrates how critical incidents and journal writing can be used in critical thinking and reflective processes. Although the focus in this chapter is on writing in service-learning, it is also applicable to other types of experiential learning and reflective practice.