> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guide.fariaedu.com/cp-service-learning/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guide.fariaedu.com/cp-service-learning/process.md). # Process The **process of service learning** follows five stages: **1. Investigation** The first step is to make an **inventory of your personal interests, skills and talents**. Ask yourself the following questions: * What do I enjoy doing in my spare time? * How could I link my personal interests to my career-related study? * What skills do I want to develop? * Am I already involved in any school or community groups? * What issues of local significance concern me? * Do these local issues have a global significance? ![](/files/-MGUn_6xP0ESrd63yYlR) | *Image:* [*Schneider, Ian*](https://unsplash.com/photos/TamMbr4okv4)*. Unsplash, 2016.* | | :-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------: | **2. Preparation** During this stage you will **develop your ideas** by considering whether you need more information, researching, establishing timelines and making a plan of action. * In which areas might you need support? * Who could you contact for advice? * What do you hope to achieve during the experience? * Do you need more information or additional skills? **3. Action** Your service experiences should usually be planned with partners so that the benefits can be maximised. **Seek advice** from experts or leaders in the field or issue you are interested in. * Which type of service is most appropriate? * What action(s) are needed to get started? * What resources will I need? * Will this be a regular, ongoing commitment? **4. Reflection** Your ongoing thoughts and actions should be recorded in your [**service learning portfolio**](https://app.gitbook.com/@faria-education-group/s/cp-service-learning/portfolio). These reflections should involve you: * describing and evaluating what took place * expressing your feelings * generating new ideas * asking questions **5. Demonstration** Your [service learning portfolio](https://app.gitbook.com/@faria-education-group/s/cp-service-learning/portfolio) is the demonstration! It contains the evidence of your participation and engagement with service learning. It can also serve as a valuable addition to your CV or personal statement by showing other skills you have developed alongside your academic abilities. Be creative: upload videos, photos, drawings, blogs, posters, mind maps and articles to highlight your achievements. {% hint style="info" %} As well as your [portfolio](https://app.gitbook.com/@faria-education-group/s/cp-service-learning/portfolio), you must meet with your [service learning coordinator/advisor](https://app.gitbook.com/@faria-education-group/s/cp-service-learning/your-advisor) for three formal interviews during your 18 months of service. {% endhint %} --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://guide.fariaedu.com/cp-service-learning/process.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.