Conversations for Change: The Impact of Service-Learning Dialogues with Incarcerated Men on Social Work Students

Authors

  • Yvonne M. Eaton-Stull Slippery Rock University of PA http://orcid.org/0000-0003-2280-9284
  • Kathleen Kocherzat Pennsylvania Department of Corrections
  • Kerry Edwards Slippery Rock University of PA

Keywords:

community engaged learning, forensic social work, prison, civic values

Abstract

This article explores a course-linked service-learning project that facilitated social-problem focused dialogues between students and men who were incarcerated in a prison. Student reflections were life-changing; listening with both their hearts and minds enhanced student learning, increasing em-pathy, fueling a sense of advocacy, and fostering a plan for action and change. Conversing with the men challenged old assumptions and invited students to solidify goals and infuse their career paths with civic values and social justice concerns.

Author Biographies

Yvonne M. Eaton-Stull, Slippery Rock University of PA

Dr. Yvonne Eaton-Stull is an Associate Professor of Social Work at Slippery Rock University.  She is also a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in crisis intervention, forensic social work, and animal-assisted social work.   Her recent research has included numerous studies implementing animal-assisted interventions in state prisons around grief and loss, stress management, and self-injury.

Kathleen Kocherzat, Pennsylvania Department of Corrections

Dr. Kathleen Kocherzat is a Licensed Psychology Manager for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.

Kerry Edwards, Slippery Rock University of PA

Dr. Kerry Edwards is an Assistant Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Slippery Rock University.

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Published

04/30/2021

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 1 (2021)

Section

Insights, Case Studies, and Applications

License

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