Service learning as supported, social learning for international students: an Australian case study

ABSTRACT

Studying in a foreign country can be a valuable experience for international students, but it may also involve uncertainty, loneliness, and questionable graduate outcomes. Given the importance of the international student market to higher education institutions, there is a clear incentive to find ways of engaging international students in meaningful learning experiences that contribute to employability, facilitate social connections, and help students find their place in society. This article reflects on an Australian pilot project that aimed to facilitate international student engagement with local social issues through service learning. Drawing on a framework that emphasised social support and social connectedness, the students were offered group placements with local non-profits as a way of learning more about social issues, forging social ties, and gaining valuable transferable experience. Students appreciated the multiple layers of support available and reported increased confidence in terms of communicating in English and making social connections across peer groups.

KEYWORDS:

• International students
• service learning
• work-integrated learning
• higher education
• volunteering

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Faith Valencia-Forrester

Dr Faith Valencia-Forrester is a Senior Lecturer, and Director of the Service Learning Unit at Griffith University. Faith specialises in designing and developing authentic university-led work-integrated learning (WIL) experiences that make a difference. Her work focuses on social justice and actively demonstrates inclusion and equity.

Bridget Backhaus

Dr Bridget Backhaus is a Lecturer in the School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science at Griffith University, Australia. She lectures in journalism and communications and her research focusses on the intersections of voice, listening, and social change on community radio.