An Experiment of Community-Based Learning Effects on Civic Participation

How does community-based learning (CBL) influence student attitudes toward civic participation? One of CBL’s primary aims is to improve college student civic participation. As yet, however, little is known about the educational effects of CBL classes on student community and political participation. Using a quasi pre–post experiment with experimental and control groups, we found that civic participation is more likely to increase in students taking CBL classes as students are more willing to participate in community activities such as organizing student groups and volunteering at local organizations. Statistical analyses suggested that students in CBL classes are more likely to engage in the political process by petitioning local authorities than by participating in the voting process. Additionally, the analyses indicated that students are more likely to actively participate in local organizations voluntarily and that they are more likely to organize student groups to address local issues. We therefore conclude that designing CBL classes that emphasize tangible local issues with hands-on experience could facilitate students’ attitudes toward political and community participation.