In summary, there is a proliferation of articles about service–learning in the nursing literature. Yet, it cannot be assumed that because an author claims to have used service–learning that this pedagogy was actually used. A more critical examination shows that not all authors are accurately portraying service–learning. Some authors fail to include a definition of service–learning, or if a definition is included, it often lacks any reference to reflection. Other authors sometimes omit descriptions of the reflection activities. This calls into question whether service–learning was authentic. To have confidence in terms used in the nursing literature, it is important that authors include all three essential elements of service–learning. Reflection needs to be an important, visible component and more than simply evaluative in nature. Students need opportunities to reflect upon how issues regarding social justice were addressed during the service–learning experience. Without this level of reflection, the spirit of service–learning has not been truly embraced.