While there are many ways in which students and faculty may participate in community engagement, with a focus on reflection and reciprocity, service learning stands apart from experiences such as volunteering and internships. Through service learning, the needs of both the community partner and student are considered equally in the development of projects and service initiatives. In addition, in service learning there is an emphasis on critical reflection in which students are asked to make connections between course content and the service experience.

Texas Tech University Service Learning Program is supported by the Center for Active Learning and Undergraduate Engagement (CALUE) and the Teaching, Learning, and Professional Development Center (TLPDC) and provides information, support, and opportunities concerning service learning to students, faculty, and community members, fostering an appreciation of the academic and social values of community engagement.