Dimensions of Spirituality Fostered through the PULSE Program for Service Learning

Cultivating spiritual development is central to the mission of Catholic higher education institutions. Studies demonstrate that service learning is a pedagogical method through which spiritual development can be fostered among undergraduates. This study builds upon prior research to analyze whether...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inCatholic education (Dayton, Ohio) Vol. 20; no. 1
Main Author Barrett, Michelle C. Sterk
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Loyola Marymount University 01.10.2016
Subjects
Catholic Schools
Higher Education
Massachusetts (Boston)
Measures (Individuals)
Mixed Methods Research
Philosophy
Pretests Posttests
Reflection
Religious Education
Religious Factors
Semi Structured Interviews
Service Learning
Spiritual Development
Student Surveys
Surveys
Theological Education
Transformative Learning
Undergraduate Students
Massachusetts (Boston)
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Summary:Cultivating spiritual development is central to the mission of Catholic higher education institutions. Studies demonstrate that service learning is a pedagogical method through which spiritual development can be fostered among undergraduates. This study builds upon prior research to analyze whether spiritual growth occurred and which dimensions of spirituality changed most significantly for students participating in the Boston College PULSE Program for Service Learning. PULSE is a year-long experience integrating weekly service with coursework in philosophy and theology through structured reflection. Quantitative findings indicate that nearly 80 percent of study participants grew spiritually. Results indicate that the most significant change occurred in the dimensions of: 1) believing in the interconnectedness of humanity and a related desire to serve humanity, 2) seeking to better understand oneself and one's purpose in life, and 3) facing religious/spiritual struggle. Interview excerpts provide detailed descriptions of how students described growth in specific dimensions of spirituality.
ISSN:2164-0246