Constructivism theory (Crotty, 1998) served as the framework to investigate the reciprocal nature of a service-learning project that involved physical education pre-service teachers and urban underserved youth. Participants included three physical education teacher education (PETE) candidates and 15 youth between the ages of 6 and 13 who were primarily of Latino descent (96%). The service-learning course allowed the teacher candidates to experientially learn subject matter while serving a population in need. Data sources included field notes, participant interviews, and teacher journals. Data analysis identified that teacher candidates gained content knowledge, established protocol techniques, and experienced an enhanced awareness of cultural competence. Additionally, the youth learned sport skills, cooperation, and teamwork, and they established positive adult relationships. These findings suggest that PETE programs consider service-learning as a viable option when designing courses that emphasize authentic learning outcomes, critical reflection, and civic engagement.

Background: Although service-learning scholarship in physical education teacher education (PETE) programs has shown positive results, little is known about the reciprocal benefits of PETE service-learning programs on underserved students and physical education preservice teachers. Purpose: This study examined the impacts on students and teachers of integrating two physical education curricula within a service-learning program using a mixed-methods approach. Methods: A pretest–posttest design investigated changes in cardiorespiratory endurance training among students (n = 50). Reflective journals, interviews, and field notes assessed program impact on preservice teachers (n = 16). Results: Findings revealed a significant improvement in cardiorespiratory endurance among students, while qualitative data provide evidence of increases in general pedagogical content, knowledge of curriculum, and knowledge of educational contexts among teachers. Discussion/Conclusion: This study adds important reciprocity findings to PETE service-learning literature.

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Nutrition education interventions have shown some effectiveness at promoting healthy diets. However, qualitative investigations might enhance understanding of factors that facilitate behavior change. The purpose of this study was to explore factors that facilitate behavior change among participants of a nutrition intervention for underserved citizens in Southern California. A focus group with eight participants suggested themes that included changes in nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and skills; successful program components; and applied knowledge. Participants valued hands‐on learning and indicated use of new food selection and preparation skills outside of class. The results of this program suggest that further study of community‐based dietary interventions in varied settings and with larger samples is needed.

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