SERVICE LEARNING

1. SERVICE LEARNING HORT 4012 University Terrace Jason Kelly and Edward Heard

2. Purpose of the Service Learning Program • Extending the role of the University by providing a needed service in the community, while gaining practical skill and experience in the in the context of a University class: • To lead 5th grade students at local elementary schools through the Junior Master Gardener Program and teach gardening methods. ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

3. What We Learned • Following rules – to work and learn together, we must respect orderly progress. • Garden schedules – planning the time needed for gardening activities ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

4. What We Learned • Temperature zones – different plants need different climate conditions • Planting seasonal annuals – warm season crops and cool season crops ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

5. What We Learned • Planting dates – using LSU Agriculture Center publications • Harvesting crops – when and how to pick vegetables • Fruit or vegetable – botanical vs. customary definitions ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

6. What We Learned • Scientific names – same in all languages • Landscape design – plan how land will be used • Light requirements – full sun, shadeor partial shade ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

7. What We Learned • Color in design – complementary colors, color wheel • Locating seeds – fruit shape, number and arrangement • Transplants – head start in the spring with greenhouse when its cold outside ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

8. What We Learned • Planting methods – hole 2X width of container, remove roots intact, plant root-ball level, water • Plant texture – adds feel to garden views • Food Guide Pyramid proper amounts of all food groups needed ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

9. What We Learned • Buds – leaves and flowers, terminal vs. lateral bud growth • Tree height – if tree was sideways, it could be measured • Herbs – identification based on texture and odor ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

10. What I Learned • Keeping students motivated by the value of learning is the key to their attention. • When students are peaceful, they show phenomenal capability to intelligently exercise new skills. • Progress was made when misbehavior was reported to the teacher for correction. • I enjoy sharing my knowledge and ambition with young people interested in Horticulture. • School gardening is informative and fun. ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

11. What I learned • The students worked best when the projects kept them busy. • Their attention was best kept by getting them interested in the projects. • Discipline was necessary but seldom needed to any extent. • It was pleasurable to see students learn new subjects on Horticulture. • Service Learning courses should be taught at all schools. ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

12. Overall Course Evaluation • The activities were interesting, interactive, and well suited to learning environment. • Students enjoyed the class periods, and were eager to participate and ask thoughtful questions. • I gained teaching experience and confidence in my horticultural skills as a leader. • We performed a valuable service for the community. ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership

13. Service Learning at University Terrace ©LSU Center for Community Engagement, Learning and Leadership