What happens when the university meets the community? Service learning boundary work and boundary workers
Journal Article
2011
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Teaching in Higher Education
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Taylor & Francis
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University of Cape Town
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Abstract
This article explores service learning via the lens of activity theory. Through this lens, it is identified as a form of 'boundary work' in higher education, with educators identified as 'boundary workers'. Drawing on the data from a recent study, this paper analyses service learning as an often contradictory and tensionfilled practice. The 'expanded community' and 'dual but interrelated object' in the service learning activity system result in many tensions for students and community members alike. This in turn poses significant challenges for boundary workers, and ultimately for the university. The paper concludes by arguing that in order to encourage and value service learning, we need to acknowledge the (new and different) knowledge, values and skills required for playing the role of boundary worker in (boundary) practices such as this.
Description
This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in Teaching in Higher Education on 23 May 2011, available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/10.1080/13562517.2011.580839.
Reference:
McMillan, J. 2011. What happens when the university meets the community? Service learning boundary work and boundary workers. Teaching in Higher Education.