Structuring the teaching and learning processes for a Service-Learning course – Results of an Design-Based-Research Approach

Abstract

Structuring the teaching and learning processes for a Service-Learning course -Results of an Design-Based-Research ApproachAbstract The starting point of the presented study was the implementation of a service-learning course in the master program business education and development. Although several studies proof the effectiveness of service-learning, aspects regarding the instructional design are less emphasized in past research. The focus of this study is to evaluate the concept of service-learning und develop the instructional design.The chosen method was a design-based-research approach including a quantitative pre-post questionnaire survey (with a control group from the Master of Business Administration) and several qualitative surveys. The study was undertaken over a period of four semesters.The collected and analyzed data prove the effectiveness of the investigated service-learning course. Additionally five design variables for didactic modeling were identified. It appears to be central for effectiveness to confront the students with an undefined problem, which leaves them in a situation of uncertainty. Secondly it is important to establish contact between the students and the clients of the social organizations.

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