Service-Learning in Entomology

Insects are readily available and easily manageable subjects and provide an exceptionally broad array of opportunities to focus on the application of biology to solve real-world problems. A mutually beneficial relationship exists between institutions of higher education and their communities. Prioritizing multicultural literacy, citizenship, and education/experience through entomological service-learning can be of tremendous benefit to our students' and our communities' futures. Service-learning, an experiential pedagogy, engages students and faculty to actively participate in their surrounding communities in educationally meaningful ways. Service-learning has the potential to enhance a student's interest in science, teaching, communication, and civic skills not typically developed in science students at research institutions. By successfully incorporating a service-learning component with entomologically-based community outreach programs, the Department of Entomology hopes to serve as a model to induce mutually beneficial permanent change in science programs at UGA and beyond.