Global service-learning in institutions of higher education: concerns from a community of practice

ABSTRACT

In order to better understand and determine priorities of global service-learning in higher education, this study used an empowering evaluation processes to assess the strategic trajectories needed for growth in this field. Researchers organised 36 focus groups during an international summit to map the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for global service-learning in higher education. These focus groups generated 121 summary statements, which were qualitatively coded and analysed to assess common themes. Participants identified six main needs that could strengthen the practice of global service-learning. These needs highlight common priorities and current dilemmas faced by the emerging field of global service-learning, and illustrate the priorities needed to move this field forward in the coming years.

KEYWORDS:

• Global
• service-learning
• community partnership
• engagement
• qualitative

Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge the help of Patrick Eccles, Brian Hanson and Paul Arnston, who helped to organise and facilitate the summit’s proceedings and focus groups. We particularly appreciate Patrick Eccles and his team for compiling the list of the outcomes provided from each breakout group.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

ORCID

Benjamin J. Lough http://orcid.org/0000-0002-8106-9207