ERIC Number: EJ1118168
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2016-Oct
Pages: 24
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-2164-0246
EISSN: N/A
Dimensions of Spirituality Fostered through the PULSE Program for Service Learning
Barrett, Michelle C. Sterk
Journal of Catholic Education, v20 n1 Article 5 Oct 2016
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.
Descriptors: Catholic Schools, Higher Education, Spiritual Development, Service Learning, Religious Education, Philosophy, Theological Education, Reflection, Religious Factors, Semi Structured Interviews, Mixed Methods Research, Student Surveys, Measures (Individuals), Undergraduate Students, Transformative Learning, Pretests Posttests, Surveys
Loyola Marymount University. School of Education 1 LMU Drive, University Hall Suite 1760, Los Angles, CA 90045. e-mail: catholicedjournal@lmu.edu; Web site: http://digitalcommons.lmu.edu/ce
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Massachusetts (Boston)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A