Service Learning With Special Olympics: Student Volunteers’ Reflections of Their Experiences at the World Summer Games

Authors

  • Michael J. Diacin
  • Jennifer L. Vansickle

Keywords:

volunteer, service learning, Special Olympics, intellectual disabilities

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact a service learning experience had on a group of undergraduate students and to explore the benefits the students received as a result of participating in the experience. Eighteen undergraduate students participated in this study. Data were collected through reflective journals that students composed during and shortly after completion of this experience. Three themes illustrating the impact upon participants and benefits gained through this experience emerged: increased comfort during interactions with athletes who have intellectual disabilities, clarification of career choice, and an increased awareness of and sensitivity toward societal stereotypes directed at individuals with intellectual disabilities.

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Issue

Vol. 28 No. 1 (2014)

Section

Feature Articles

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