Options
Service-learning experiences of high-ability students in community problem solving
Author
Tan, June Hwee Chiat
Supervisor
Heng, Mary Anne Huan Gek
Abstract
In today’s globalised world, preparing students for future active citizenry, social responsibility and leadership has become one of pressing educational importance and need. Service-learning provides opportunities for students to become caring, concerned and socially responsible citizens who are actively engaged with their community. This study seeks to understand the nature of the service-learning experiences of high-ability students in highly select secondary and post-secondary schools in Singapore through Community Problem Solving (CmPS), the service-learning component of the Future Problem Solving Programme (Torrance, 1978). A related focus is the extent to which these service-learning experiences influence students’ commitment to and leadership in service to the community in the future. This study draws from, and in part, extends the work of Volk (2003). A mixed methods design was used for this small-scale, exploratory study. Quantitative and qualitative data sources included the Community Problem Solving Questionnaire, focus group discussions, interviews and students’ CmPS qualifying reports. This study was conducted in three affiliated, Integrated Programme schools that offer service-learning programmes. The participants were 48 high-ability students from Grades 9 to 11 and eight teachers from the three schools who have experience mentoring service-learning projects. Findings from this study revealed that through service-learning, students have developed increased confidence in leadership skills, a future-oriented outlook and a greater sense of commitment to service and engagement with the community. This study also highlights the importance of support from teachers and the nurture of student dispositions and beliefs in enhancing students’ service-learning experiences. This study suggests that educators and policymakers can do more to harness the benefits of service-learning programmes so as to provide more comprehensive and rigorous educational experiences to nurture students to become socially responsible citizens, able to apply their talents and abilities to solve real-world problems, for self-fulfillment and for the benefit of others in the community.
Date Issued
2010
Call Number
LC220.5 Tan
Date Submitted
2010