THE BENEFITS OF SERVICE LEARNING FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF FUTURE SOCIAL WORKERS

Abstract

Service learning (DKU) is an innovative method based on experiential learning whose implementation in the educational system can achieve numerous benefits for the academic and social community. The aim of the research presented by this paper was to examine the perceived profits of DKU among social work students (N = 23) due to the pilot implementation of the elective DKU course in the first year of study. Three research questions were asked related to the student’s perception of gains from participation in DKU projects for various actors in the project, self-asse-ssment of satisfaction with certain elements of the DKU and proposals for improving the course. Research questions were elaborated in a survey applied upon completion of the course; answers to open-type questions were processed using the method of qualitative content analysis, and answers to closed-type questions by quantitative analysis of data. According to the results, students primarily recognize the numerous profits of DKU for themselves on a personal and professional level, but they also perceive a range of profits for users, associations and the wider community. Furthermore, students are very satisfied with the different elements of DKU and be-lieve that it has enabled them to get to know the practice of social work better. And, finally, students propose (even) more emphasis on the preparation and design of projects and on working in the association / community, as well as more reflections orally. The results speak in favor of increasing quotas in the DKU course and/or the implementation of DKU on several courses at the beginning of the study.