Service-Learning as a Vehicle for Youth Holistic Development
摘要
This chapter introduces Service-Learning (SL) as an innovative pedagogical approach that fosters the holistic development of youth in higher education. Grounded in the classic educational theories of Dewey, Kolb, and Mezirow, SL emphasizes the importance of critical reflection on service experiences. Through a review of empirical evidence, this chapter further highlights the multifaceted impacts of SL on four principal stakeholders: students, service recipients, teachers, and communities. It demonstrates how SL facilitates mutually beneficial relationships among these parties. This chapter also discusses the implementation of SL in a global context, with a specific focus on The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) as a notable example. Furthermore, the chapter addresses the successful adaptation of SL to electronic SL (e-SL) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In conclusion, the collective evidence supports the role of SL in bridging academic knowledge with real-world practice and community engagement. This underscores its significance as a valuable educational approach for the holistic development of youth.