Service-Learning at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University: Opportunities and Challenges Ahead

Abstract

With the implementation of the new 4-year undergraduate curriculum, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has used the extra year to launch the General University Requirements which includes Service-Learning (SL). In this chapter, the achievements in SL in the past few years are outlined. Several lessons have been learned in the implementation of SL, including the feasibility of offering a huge number of SL subjects across a wide range of disciplines and the importance of training and e-learning curriculum materials. Besides opportunities for developing SL initiatives, the major challenges are also highlighted. These include the issue of maintaining a competitive edge, sustainability in SL staff, promotion of the “we care” motivation behind SL, maintaining quality SL initiatives, integration across different disciplines, sectors and services, the need for strategic directions, and the importance of research and evaluation in SL in the promotion of quality of life.