Challenges and Opportunities in International Service Learning
- Conference
- Location
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Salt Lake City, Utah
- Publication Date
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June 23, 2018
- Start Date
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June 23, 2018
- End Date
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July 27, 2018
- Conference Session
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Imagining Others, Defining Self Through Consideration of Ethical and Social Implications
- Tagged Division
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Liberal Education/Engineering & Society
- Tagged Topic
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Diversity
- Page Count
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15
- DOI
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10.18260/1-2--30181
- Permanent URL
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https://peer.asee.org/30181
- Download Count
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518
Paper Authors
Tina Lee University of Wisconsin-Stout
Dr. Tina Lee is an Associate Professor of Anthropology and the Program Director for the Applied Social Science Program at the University of Wisconsin-Stout.
Devin R. Berg
University of Wisconsin-Stout
orcid.org/0000-0002-1193-3848
Devin Berg is an Associate Professor and Program Director of the B.S. Mechanical Engineering program in the Engineering and Technology Department at the University of Wisconsin - Stout.
Elizabeth A. Buchanan University of Wisconsin-Stout
Elizabeth Buchanan is Endowed Chair in Ethics and Acting Director, Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, at the University of Wisconsin-Stout.
Abstract
Service learning, and specifically the work of organizations such as Engineers Without Borders USA, have become popular with universities looking to provide their students with applied educational opportunities which blend technical skills with a broader social mission and help the institution demonstrate its global impact. However, questions remain regarding the truly realized outcomes for students, as well as the unintended consequences that may be experienced by the partnering communities. This paper describes early results results from a four-year, mixed-method study which collected data through a combination of interviews and focus groups with members of the Engineers Without Borders USA organization, analysis and coding of completed project documentation, and observations and notes collected during a field visit to a project site. We conclude from our early data that students who are able (given sufficient resources) to fully participate in these type of projects do see positive benefits. However, barriers may prevent all students from having this opportunity. Further, the nature of student service learning projects inherently creates challenges for the communities that partner on these projects. Ongoing revisions to the Engineers Without Borders USA operating procedures may remedy some of the deficiencies, while researchers, participants, and institutions should continue to critically evaluate the impacts and outcomes of their work.
Lee, T., & Berg, D. R., & Buchanan, E. A. (2018, June), Challenges and Opportunities in International Service Learning Paper presented at 2018 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition , Salt Lake City, Utah. 10.18260/1-2--30181
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