Experiential Workforce Service Learning Within the Classroom: Lessons Learned

The ubiquitous adoption of technology has transformed businesses operations on so many different levels which has left businesses vulnerable and in need of information technology assistance.  Offering experiential workforce service learning opportunities for undergraduate information technology students enrolled in various technology courses may be one way to contend with the ongoing technology challenges and needs of businesses.  Experiential workforce service learning can provide free monitored help for businesses as well as "real world" experiences for students inside and outside of the classroom.  This paper will explain the past and present experimental workforce service learning opportunities, environments, and courses in which undergraduate Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education information technology students were involved.  This paper will also share the challenges and lessons learned.