Service Learning and Civic Education

Cecilia L. W. Chan, Albert W. L. Chau

Research output: Chapter in book/report/conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

There has been deep reflection on the search for excellence in higher education and a revisit of the virtues and responsibilities of individuals in society since the financial tsunami in 2008. The university is a key driving force for innovation and change, so higher education administrators also have to rethink appropriate technology and strategies in cultivating socially relevant leadership in a post-modern society. The new students, who are Internet proficient and commonly known as Generation Y, require less information dissemination in class. They are looking for opportunities to articulate their life goals, search for their ideals, visualize their dreams, try their ideas, and develop their vision for the future. Student-centered experiential learning through servicing is a good choice for this generation. Examples of service learning projects in the US and the University of Hong Kong are shared. The sense of commitment to the poor, self-esteem, and sense of meaning of the students are significantly enhanced. However, service learning is not without problems. Issues of assessment, motivation, monitoring, training, and sustainability are challenges that administrators have to resolve in cultivating morality and responsibility in transforming leadership for tomorrow.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAcademic Administration
Subtitle of host publicationA Quest For Better Management and Leadership in Higher Education
EditorsSheying Chen
PublisherNova Science Publishers
Chapter17
Pages225-242
Number of pages18
ISBN (Electronic)9781616685713
ISBN (Print)9781607417323
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2009

Publication series

NameEducation in a Competitive and Globalizing World Series
PublisherNova Science Publishers

Scopus Subject Areas

  • General Social Sciences

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