Social Action Project Reflection

How has service-learning changed you personally?

The service learning of this year was extremely challenging, insightful, and productive. I found that it was an overwhelming experience as when working within a school that does not communicate very well so it took some time for learners to be aware of the Social Action Projection within their school, therefore I had to wait 4 weeks for the learners to be well informed and begin placing their donations. Although overall I was happy that the Social Action Project went well because I had enough donations which excited the learners as they had a great time meeting the SPCA who brought a dog and excited the learners. Therefore, although I had teething problems at the beginning, the project continued seamlessly.

How has service-learning developed you professionally?

The Social Action Project helped me tremendously as I got to understand the inner workings of school events, as well as if you are in charge of the project you are in charge of essentially everything which included, posters where to place the posters, how to notify the parents and the learners as well as including an incentive for the learners to become excited for the project and take part in it. Moreover, the learners found the SPCA who were a part of the Social Action Project and informed the learners about Pet nutrition, safety and how they too can handle themselves around pets. I feel like as a teacher I was prepared and organised as the event went swiftly as though I was a full member of the staff and didn’t have much guidance from other teachers.

What new knowledge, skills and/or attitudes have you gained?

I obtained a lot of knowledge from this experience as I understood how important it is to communicate as teachers as well as to work together, I also learnt that the rule you may be used to or expect may not be applicable in a particular school. I also learnt that a Social Action Project means a lot of work for the organizer as they are mostly solely in charge of project therefore its important to not expect help from other people around you and needs you to be extremely self-dependent.

Describe the benefit of this initiative to the school and comment on its sustainability.

The benefit of this initiative was that the learners and the school had never done something like this before, and they were intrigued with the project and the SPCA was highly supported as they received more than just food but got toys, blankets, and snacks for the pets. The children found it extremely exciting and enjoyed the talk that they had with SPCA as they were engaged and asked multiple questions that the talk went over the required time.