Youth Map: A software based program to increase service learning quality

Service-learning is community service performed through schools that is integrated with curriculum-based instruction and individual reflection. In 2004, 28 percent of all K-12 public institutions were involved in some type of service-learning, affecting approximately 4.7 million K-12 students in 23,000 public schools. The goals of service learning generally are theorized to include improved citizenship, and applied learning in areas such as math, science, and social studies. This project is to develop Youth Map, a software package and curriculum that enables high school students to create network models of community issues and institutions in order to increase cognitive skills, and learn content related to science, the environment, and civic engagement.