Work in progress-case study: in service learning incorporated into class work

This work in progress case study involves a nontraditional concept of incorporating an in service learning experience with a course lecture for class credit. In the construction management program at Georgia Southern University, we have applied the habitat for humanity house construction experience as the lab portion of our wood structures course. The students learn about wood structures and wood construction during the lecture portion of the class and then are required to complete their lab at the Statesboro habitat for humanity construction site. It is an important experience for the students since they receive a real life look at their lecture material. This active and cooperative learning also provides an opportunity for them to volunteer in the local community. The spring 2004 semester was the second semester that the habitat for humanity lab was in use. It is an ongoing pilot program that initially appears to be successful. We will continue to evaluate this learning environment by student participation, response and habitat for humanity feedback.