The status of service learning in departments of communication: a follow‐up study

While service learning in communication appears to be gaining in acceptance, few previous empirical studies examine changes in its availability and implementation over time. The present study compared a 1995 (Sellnow & Oster, ) and a 2001 survey of department chairs to reveal how service learning fared in communication departments. The survey indicated increases in both the number of communication studies majors and the number of students participating in service learning. Fewer departments appeared to be diligent about providing essential elements of service learning such as finding meaningful service and requiring structured reflection. The survey uncovered perceived benefits to students, including communication skills believed to be improved through service learning. Across the six year span, multicultural awareness and intercultural skills were increasingly associated with service learning.