ERIC Number: EJ1370470
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 11
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1937-156X
EISSN: EISSN-2162-4097
Changes in Volunteerism Perception: Results from an International Service Learning Case Study
Wilson, Rachelle; Látková, Pavlína; Yoshino, Aiko; Sheffield, Emilyn
Schole: A Journal of Leisure Studies and Recreation Education, v37 n3 p123-133 2022
Background: Engagement in volunteer activities is an experience that many students may not prioritize due to lack of time and interest. Purpose: This research examines the use of International Service Learning (ISL) as a potential platform to positively change student perceptions of volunteerism. Methodology/Approach: Multiple methods (interviews, journals, observations) were used to measure ISL impacts on 13 San Francisco State University students who participated in an ISL experience in Costa Rica in Spring 2017. Data were analyzed based on five processes of transformational learning, as outlined by Naude. Findings/Conclusions: The results show that a change in volunteer perspective was evident in students as a result of the ISL experience. Students' motivation evolved from desirability to travel abroad to an apparent sense of stewardship and desire to give back. Implications: Participating in ISL programs can have a profound impact on students. Including international travel components may be a useful tool to entice the millennial student to participate in SL programs. Participants' regular reflective activities are proven to be crucial to the process of enhancing ISL.
Descriptors: Service Learning, Cultural Awareness, Student Volunteers, Student Attitudes, College Students, Foreign Countries, Student Motivation, Study Abroad, Student Experience, Social Responsibility, International Programs, Travel, Global Approach
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: California (San Francisco); Costa Rica
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A