Service-Learning is a pedagogical approach meant to increase students’ professional ability to advance the responsible application of science in society, while also ensuring a reciprocal transfer between science and society. By applying academic knowledge to practise with a social purpose, students can experience the results of their actions while learning and providing a service to the community. Thus, the guide offers lecturers an exciting way of teaching and learning.
Research has shown that students who participate in SL projects learn in a more comprehensive way and are more likely to become active in their community. Reflecting on this process helps them to understand their role in creating such results, grow personally, acquire a set of transversal competencies, and commit to future actions.
This guide aims to give lecturers a first insight into SL, its key elements, and different forms, including international perspectives and digital means. Additionally, it provides tips for the design and implementation of their own SL project", says the CIVIS Expert Gropup on Service Learning.
A first insight into Service-Learning
CIVIS, the Europe's Civic University Alliance of eleven European universities, and its African associate member universities, has the goal of helping reduce inequalities, increase access to quality training and create real opportunities for success for all students and staff members of the Alliance.
Therefore, promoting civic engagement throughout academia is a key pillar of CIVIS' goals. In the framework of the CIVIS alliance, a service-learning tradition has been built with an international dimension for the promotion of intercultural work by addressing global topics, raising global awareness, and promoting active citizenship and integration of minorities in the community.
