Service-learning as an inclusive practice

Abstract

This article primarily focuses on the implementation of service-learning in centres that work with adolescents at risk of social exclusion. Specifically, the paper relates part of a project developed over three years at four centres: the Shared Schooling Unit (UEC, by its Spanish initials) in Esclat; the UEC in Cruïlla, the Saó-Prat Foundation and the Adsis Foundation. The main issues discussed are the benefits of service-learning for social inclusion, the development of service-learning at one of the centre that had never before attempted this methodology and the factors that enabled the introduction of service-learning in all four centres. The article concludes with five reflections that seek to help guide the implementation and subsequent roll-out of service-learning in other centres that work with highly vulnerable adolescents.