From personal development to social change: Investigating the long-term impact of an adapted physical activity service-learning program

Service-learning initiatives provide an experiential learning environment shown to foster academic attitudes, social skills, and future career aspirations. Service-learning also has been effective within adapted physical activity; however, given the lack of research, the magnitude and the long-term impact of programming are not adequately understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term impact of service-learning within an adapted physical activity setting. Using the Acadia University Sensory Motor Instructional Leadership Experience S.M.I.L.E.® program as the subject of a case study, participants were sent an online survey containing questions on demographic information, disability attitudes, and their S.M.I.L.E. experience. Results from this study presented five themes: (a) Relationship Development, (b) Empathy, (c) Attitude, (d) Accountability, and (e) Knowledge & Skill Development. Results demonstrated that service-learning programming within adapted physical activity can foster positive attitudes toward individuals with disabilities, promoting future civic responsibility, and continuing its influence postgraduation.