Research-based service-learning: outcomes of a social policy course |
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| Authors: | Younghee Lim Elaine M Maccio Trey Bickham William F Dabney |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Social Work, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA;2. School of Social Work, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA;3. College of Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA;4. CPS Analytics and Evaluation Team, TX Dept of Family &5. Protective Services Systems Improvement Division, Austin, TX, USA |
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| Abstract: | Previous research has found service-learning in undergraduate social policy courses to increase students’ knowledge, skills, values, and competence. The present study utilized a sample of 60 graduate-level social work students who participated in a research-based service-learning (RBSL) project that involved collecting and analyzing data about the extent of payday loan use among bankruptcy filers and reporting results to community partners. Quantitative findings revealed significant increases in students’ personal social responsibility. Qualitative findings shed light on growth in personal social responsibility, civic awareness, policy advocacy, and personal values. Suggestions for future studies using RBSL pedagogy to teach social policy are discussed. |
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| Keywords: | Research-based service-learning policy practice personal social responsibility civic awareness |
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