Teaching, learning and service - Is there a nexus?

The service component of an academic's responsibilities is often outlined in the selection criteria for positions. Most academics engage in some form of service, within the University, external to the University, often both. So what is the link between this service and teaching? Is there a link? Are students' learning experiences enriched through their teachers' involvement in service? Is service an activity that can be undertaken directly by students as part of their learning, 'service learning'?

This issue of ITL explores the links between service and teaching and learning through contributions from teachers involved in various service activities. Links are made between their service and the teaching that they do. The nature of service learning is also introduced with the usual reference or two, for those interested to explore the concept further.

Does your service inform or assist your teaching? Could your student learn through being of service in the community?