“A Thousand Points of Light” Illuminate the Psychology Curriculum: Volunteering as a Learning Experience

Abstract

Most psychology departments offer field placements that allow undergraduates to learn practical skills and test career options. The psychology curriculum should encourage community service placements because they are consistent with psychology's values, good for students, and beneficial to the community. To close the acknowledged gap between good intentions and volunteer action, our department has developed two models of community service: elementary school tutoring within a child psychology course and credit for individual placements in a variety of settings. We describe procedures followed, decisions made, and lessons learned in setting up these courses. Student testimony about the value of these experiences is offered. Encouraging volunteerism is well worth the effort of psychology departments.