Student Experiences with Service-Learning in Sport Management

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to discuss the service-learning experiences of students in sport management classes. Participants included 157 students enrolled in four sport management courses at two universities located in the southeastern United States. Students enrolled in the classes in the spring semester of 2001 were assigned a minimum of 15 hours of service-learning as a requirement for the courses. A 39-item survey instrument was constructed for use in the present study and was administered after the completion of the service hours. These results suggest that the service-learning experiences actively engaged the students as opposed to a more passive observational experience. These respondents reported many advantages, and few disadvantages, of having a service requirement in their sport management classes. Respondents reported that service experiences improve social interaction skills, resume building, awareness of social responsibility, development of practical skills, and interaction with others from diverse cultures.