Service Learning Reflection Paper

During my Service Learning, there were interactions between me and the residents and I was able to learn and change certain concepts about this experience. I completed my hours at the Utah Independent Living Center, where I was able to watch a couple of youth and adult classes that were being taught to individuals with disabilities. While I was there, I would observe and interact with them and help them if they needed it. First, they would have classes that were on topics such as goals, literacy, manners, communication, etc. During these classes, I would help them with things like making an art craft, read, create poems, circling the correct homophone, etc. When they were learning about goals, I would ask them questions, such as “what’s going to help you accomplish your goal?” or “do you know when you want to accomplish your goal by?” In other words, I would ask them questions that would help them create SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely) goals. Not only that, but they also had support groups where they talked about whatever they wanted. At the support group class, they could get suggestions from others on what they think about a situation.

I believe that those who judge people with disabilities so badly should probably spend a day with these individuals to see how they really are. If I had the time, I would definitely go back because people with disabilities are seriously some of the best people. When I was there, the time passed by so quick of how much I enjoyed it, but I didn’t like that classes were only for about an hour and sometimes there were only two classes, I wished that classes were a bit longer. Other than that, I really enjoyed spending time with people with