A Program Evaluation Of A University Volunteer Program

Abstract

The present study was created to explore the phenomenon of volunteerism as it relates to
integrated learning by showcasing a "best practice" in implementing a service-learning or
volunteer program at an institute of higher education. Central Michigan University has been
nationally recognized for its Volunteer Center program and through a mixed methods design the
present study evaluated the program using qualitative and quantitative data collected by the
researcher. The study was guided by four primary research questions:
1. What are student perceptions of the Volunteer Center and the programs it offers?
2. What is the value, if any, that students and/or alumni find in volunteering via out-ofclassroom
learning experiences offered by the Volunteer Center?
3. What is the relationship between student grade point average and student involvement
with the Volunteer Center?
4. What specific programs offered by the Volunteer Center do students feel supports
them in their overall development?
Results of the study showed that students find the Volunteer Center helpful and their
involvement in the programs offered by the Volunteer Center have taught them more about
societal issues, given them a connection to CMU as well as the communities they've served, and
increased their likelihood of continuing to volunteer post-graduation; all of which contributed to
their overall development while enrolled at the university.

Date of Award	2011
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	James Wallace (Supervisor)