Full Description
Want to help? First you must be willing to learn.
This year, over ten million people will go abroad, eager to find the perfect blend of adventure and altruism. Volunteer travel can help you find your place in the world--and find out what you're made of. So why do so many international volunteer programs fail to make an impact? Why do some do more harm than good?
Learning Service offers a powerful new approach that invites volunteers to learn from host communities before trying to 'help' them. It's also a thoughtful critique of the sinister side of volunteer travel; a guide for turning good intentions into effective results; and essential advice on how to make the most of your experience.
This book is for volunteers and educators alike. If you're wondering if volunteer travel is right for you; if you're getting on the plane tomorrow; or if you're trying to adjust to life as a returned volunteer--this is the book you need in your bag.
Contents
Getting started
On learning
Part 1: LEARNING ABOUT YOURSELF
Chapter 1 - Embracing a Learning Mindset
Chapter 2 - Exploring Your Motivations and Goals
Part 2: LEARNING ABOUT VOLUNTEERING
Chapter 3- Putting it in Context: You Are Not the First to Say "I Am Here to Help"
Chapter 4 - The Potential Pitfalls of Volunteer Travel
Chapter 5 - The Positive Potential of Learning Service
Part 3: LEARNING ABOUT YOUR OPTIONS
Chapter 6 - Volunteering and Alternatives: Deciding on the Right Path for You
Chapter 7-Volunteer Roles and Projects
Chapter 8- Choices and Considerations in Exploring Volunteer Travel
Chapter 9 - Evaluating and Selecting an Option
On action
Part 4: ACTION - BEFORE YOU LEAVE
Chapter 10- Practicing Soft and Hard Skills
Chapter 11- Everyone Can Get There - Funding Your Time Abroad
Chapter 12- Final Logistics: Mentally and Physically `Packing Your Bags'
Part 5: Action - While Abroad
Chapter 13- Humble and Effective Action
Chapter 14 - Getting the Most Out of Your Time Overseas: Learning Service Applied to Life Abroad
Chapter 15 - Using Your Skills Appropriately and Sustainably
Part 6: ACTION - RETURNING HOME AND FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE
Chapter 16- Transitioning Home
Chapter 17 - Using Learning Service to Make a Lasting Change
Parting Words
Further Reading - Development Book Reviews
Endnotes
