Implementation of Community-Based Service Learning in Special Education Teacher Preparation Programs

Community-based service learning (CBSL) is a powerful pedagogical approach for teacher education and other service-oriented training programs that integrates meaningful community engagement with academic learning. Benefits of CBSL include enhancing teacher candidates’ ability to connect theory with practice, cultivating reflective practitioners, and strengthening relationships between universities and communities. This article explores how CBSL can be effectively implemented in teacher education programs through three case studies from different institutions. The first case highlights collaboration with community-based partners to offer teacher candidates service-learning experiences that enhance teacher identity development, strengthen awareness of community resources, and allow for collaboration with the community to serve the whole child. The second case illustrates how a teacher education program, along with other service career programs, works with the local special education collaborative to provide space and physical activities for students with high support needs. The third case is a collaborative community-based program hosted by local recreational partners and staffed by graduate special education teacher candidates that provides activities to individuals with autism spectrum disorder, their families, and invited guests in a welcoming and sensory-friendly setting. The article concludes with recommendations for integrating CBSL into teacher education curricula to maximize its benefits.