The Generator
The Generator is NYLC's quarterly publication exploring service-learning practice featuring research, practical ideas, and profiles of service-learning in action.
Click here to subscribe to The Generator newsletter list for automatic notification when new issues are published. We do not currently offer a printed edition of The Generator.
Past Issues
The Generator, Fall 2011
In this issue of The Generator we explore “Conduct meaningful service,” the sixth step of the service-learning cycle. Learn how one southwestern Kentucky middle school was able to increase summer camp attendance and academic interest by engaging students in hands-on STEM projects. Also read how students in central Michigan are creating teen driver safety changes by rallying support for the Graduated Drivers Licensing Law and educating their peers on what these stronger restrictions mean.
The Generator, Spring/Summer 2011
With this issue of The Generator we explore “plan and prepare,” the fifth step of the service-learning cycle. Read how planning assessments that demonstrate achievement of learning objectives can be integrated into the cycle, and view a sample unit plan that uses this Understanding by Design approach. Experience a New Orleans elementary school’s exhilaration as they create a community garden to address local fresh food needs with help from their partners and ultimately garden with Louisiana First Lady Jindal.
The Generator, Winter 2011
With this issue of The Generator we explore “developing ownership,” an essential part of the service-learning cycle. Read about its relevance both to youth voice and partnerships, two of the K-12 Service-Learning Standards for Quality Practice. Discover how Chicago elementary students are inspiring recycling and energy use behavior changes in adults and students alike, and how a Minneapolis student-run newspaper brings insight to the achievement gap. Explore opportunities for fostering student ownership in a service-learning experience through formative assessment.
The Generator, Fall 2010
This issue of The Generator asserts the importance of “learning” in service-learning as we explore the third step of the service-learning cycle, establishing evidence of learning. To create academically rigorous service-learning experiences, NYLC has brought in Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe’s “backwards design” approach. Jon Schmidt shares the successful citywide approach to service-learning in Chicago. St.
The Generator, Summer 2010
This issue of The Generator explores the second step of the Service-Learning Cycle, identifying genuine needs. Learn about NYLC’s initiatives to improve outcomes for urban schools across the nation through the Generator School Network. Guilford County, North Carolina, led by Superintendent Maurice (Mo) Green, embraces service-learning and character education district-wide to address their community needs.
The Generator, Spring 2010
In this issue of The Generator, we delve into the first step of the Service-Learning Cycle, identifying academic goals. Mike VanKeulen's cover story explores how schools can be responsive to natural disaster needs such as fundraising for Haiti and Chile post-earthquakes, and still address existing academic goals. Rochester, N.Y. superintendent Jean-Claude Brizard speaks broadly about his district's integration of service-learning, and Common Cents' approach to youth philanthropy is profiled through their Penny Harvest.
The Generator, Summer 2009
This issue of The Generator focuses on "duration and intensity," one of the eight service-learning standards for quality practice. While there is no magic number of hours that results in optimal service-learning, longer and more in-depth experiences tend to result in greater gains for all involved. Learn about the research that supports this standard, read about a powerful middle school environmental program, and learn how to move your program from direct service to advocacy.
The Generator, Spring 2009
In this issue of The Generator, we explore partnerships for service-learning, an evidence-based standard that distinguishes service-learning from other forms of service. Read about teacher and professional development tools rooted in new K-12 Standards for Service-Learning Quality Practice; a dynamic partnership that undergirds a social justice and service-learning program in Chicago; and the research that supports the importance of partnerships in service-learning.
