'THE PATH LESS TAKEN': DESIGNING, IMPLEMENTING, AND EVALUATING A SERVICE-LEARNING COURSE FOR ENGINEERING COLLEGE STUDENTS IN LIBYA

Authors

  • Hameda Suwaed Department of English, Sabratha College of Arts, Sabratha University, Libya

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejes.v0i0.1148

Keywords:

service learning, academic skills, social skills

Abstract

This research paper describes the theoretical and pedagogical back­ground and results of the trial of implementing a service-learning course for 18 engineering students at a public Libyan engineering college. This study fills a gap in the literature related to service-learning practice and outcomes in Libya and the Arab world in general. The results of the study, based on student reflection journals, focus groups, and final course outcomes, showed that students reported academic gains in terms of improving their academic and social skills. They also report feeling empowered personally, engaged socially, and having a stronger sense of civic engagement. The initial results of the course are promising, and an expansion of it combined with a long-term study will continue in future semesters. 

 

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Author Biography

  • Hameda Suwaed, Department of English, Sabratha College of Arts, Sabratha University, Libya

    Hameda Suwaed is assistant professor in the College of Arts at Sabratha University. She specializes in teacher education, service learning and strategic planning. She holds a PhD in Education from University of Glasgow.

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Published

2017-10-31

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