Innovative Community-Engaged Learning Projects: From Chemical Reactions to Community Interactions

A critical review of developments in community-based learning (also called service-learning) and community-based research in chemistry education at second and third level is provided in this chapter. The focus is on innovative and interesting projects implemented over the last 5 years, but relevant initiatives prior to this are also incorporated. Evidence for the effects on student learning, motivation, and personal and professional development that arise from community engagement is examined, as are the consequences of this pedagogical approach for academic staff, educational institutions, and community partners. Other aspects that are considered include facilitating the effective and sustainable implementation of activities and projects, minimizing obstacles, maximizing potential synergies, and the impact of the local institutional culture and support framework. Current and potential future developments are then reviewed, and the evaluation made is that a critical mass of chemistry community-engaged learning activity appears to be developing.