NITOP is widely recognized as the premier national venue for faculty in the field of psychology to share innovative teaching strategies and cutting‑edge research on classroom practices.
Dr. Mawdsley’s poster, titled “Impact of Service Learning on Motivation, Engagement, and Purpose in Human Development Students,” was co‑authored with Alyssa Jeffcoat, a University of Florida undergraduate student. Their collaborative project examined how service‑learning experiences shape students’ intrinsic motivation and perceptions of academic and professional preparation.
The study’s findings reveal that students who engage in service learning report an appreciation for the real-world application of the learning and a deeper sense of purpose as they consider future career pathways. The research highlights the ongoing commitment to innovative teaching in the Educational Psychology courses at UF, which serves hundreds of undergraduate students each year.
Dr Mawdsley noted:
“I’m honored to receive this SOTL award, which highlights how clinical faculty research can directly impact teaching practice. My research reveals that service learning’s true power lies not in quantitative metrics alone, but in the meaningful connections students forge between classroom concepts and their future careers. When coursework intersects with real-world application, students experience greater engagement and develop a stronger sense of purpose in their learning. This finding is especially relevant in our increasingly digital educational landscape, underscoring the enduring value of in-person experiences for student learning and development.”
Dr. Mawdsley’s award reflects HDOSE’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful professional lives by integrating applied learning and evidence-based practices into coursework.
About HDOSE
HDOSE faculty research and teach the foundations and structures of educational and community systems for people to thrive in their learning and development. We cultivate researchers, leaders, counselors, and administrators, empowering them to make evidence-based decisions that enhance human potential and educational growth.
To learn more about HDOSE degree programs, click here.
Note. This HDOSE highlights story was written using generative AI-assistance.