Experience care: efficacy of service-learning in fostering perspective transformation in tourism education. (2nd January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Matteucci, Xavier; Aubke, Florian
• Is Part Of: Journal of teaching in travel & tourism. Volume 18:Number 1(2018)
• Page Start: 8
• Page End: 24
• Publication Date: 2018-01-02
• Subjects: Service-learning -- experiential learning -- pedagogy -- course design -- thematic analysis; Tourism -- Study and teaching (Higher) -- Periodicals; Tourism -- Research -- Periodicals; 338.47910711
• DOI: 10.1080/15313220.2017.1403800
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1531-3220

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article presents the findings of a study, which explores the benefits of a service-learning (SL) approach from the perspective of students. The SL approach employed in this study combines theoretical discourse in human relations and personal development with active engagement in community projects. We collected 61 reflective essays from undergraduate students at an Austrian university about their impressions of the lecture and of the two community service projects they participated in. The thematic analysis of the textual data revealed that the SL approach adopted in our course largely benefitted the students. Challenge, positive emotions, affiliation, and learning are the four key dimensions which characterise the students' experiences. Amongst the learning outcomes reported by the students, SL facilitated self-awareness, self-confidence, self-esteem, stress-resistance, enhanced communication, and problem-solving skills. Despite some challenges, SL proves to be a promising experiential pedagogical approach, which, we argue, is highly relevant to tourism management students.