Service-Learning as a Means to Understand Socio-Economic Privilege, Inequality, and SocialMobility

Abstract

This chapter describes dimensions of socio-economic privilege and inequality that are absent from most discussions of civic engagement by liberal arts institutions in Asia. Service-learning is a pedagogical approach that simultaneously serves student learning and actual community needs. The literature discusses privileges and inequality that are often vocally shared worldwide, but seriously lacks the review of the civic engagement element of liberal arts education in Asia. This chapter introduces readers to experiential and service-learning programs that attempt to enhance civic engagement and awareness of socio-economic diversity in the international/intercultural dimension in Asia. These programs serve as possible models to nurture the University’s commitment to the public good and overcome the role of education as a reproduction of inequality.