Building University-Community Partnerships: Linking Theory to Practice

ISSN： 1323-577X

Source： Educational Practice and Theory, Vol.26, Iss.1, 2004-01, pp. : 37-49

Disclaimer: Any content in publications that violate the sovereignty, the constitution or regulations of the PRC is not accepted or approved by CNPIEC.

Previous Menu Next

Abstract

Recently, there has been increased attention paid to the development of relationships between universities and their surrounding communities. These relationships are formed and nurtured through student internships, service learning projects, and the development of advisory councils. The benefits for both the university and community that are derived from these partnerships can be deep and long-lasting. The authors address a gap in the literature by examining theoretical perspectives that may elucidate and guide the relationship between university programs that encourage service learning and the community entities that are served. The authors contend that university-community partnerships can in various ways enhance the generativity of all involved. Specific examples of positive, ongoing partnerships between university and the community are discussed. The authors call for greater theoretical and research grounding to guide and evaluate university- community partnerships in general and service learning in particular.