THE HIDALGO PROJECT: AN EXPERIENTIAL STUDY OF SERVICE-LEARNING IN MEXICO

This paper describes and analyzes the experience of a Canadian nurse educator and graduate student who studied and participated in a service-learning project in a rural community outside the village of Orizabita, in the Municipal District of Ixmiquilpan, in Hidalgo, Mexico. A successful service-learning experience occurs when a pre-determined service is provided to an individual or community in need, at the same time providing students with a rich and rewarding learning experience. The methodology used to study and evaluate this experience include ethnographic field notes, interviews, and reflective journaling. The benefits of such an experience include: increased leadership skills, active involvement in community, heightened awareness of cultural sensitivity and competence, life skills, and the establishment of partnerships.