Benefits of Service Learning for Undergraduate Students of Education, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
Abstract
Service-learning is a pedagogical method that integrates classroom learning with community service and helps improve a student's learning experience. This study aims to identify the benefits of involvement in learning-services to students of Master of Education Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor. The methodology of the study is to use qualitative methods using semi-structured interviews with eight respondents using two students and six students based on sampling. Qualitative descriptive data are collected and grouped according to appropriate themes. The findings of the study show that UTM undergraduate students benefit from three main aspects related to academics, civic involvement and personal development involved in the implementation of service-learning programs. Academically, learning-services increase understanding of the subjects taken, interest and improvement of High Level Thinking Skills. Overall civics, on the other hand, students are more important, appreciative and their perspectives on themselves and life nearby are also changing. Students can also use important knowledge such as self-importance, teamwork and leadership. Through the findings of this study, the university is expected to provide stronger assistance to efforts in organizing more service-learning programs in the future.References
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