Implementation of Service Learning in the Chemistry Classroom: A Colombian Experience

Abstract

Service-learning methodology makes a connection between student classroom learning and the application of knowledge to solve community needs. The present study was carried out with the Universidad Autónoma de Occidente (Colombia) community by environmental engineering students enrolled in a Chemistry 2 course. The students helped the Universidad Autonoma de Occidente community reinforce criteria for separating solid waste generated in the cafeteria. To carry out this project, the students had to appropriate concepts from the chemistry course such as functional groups, types of polymers, and the biodegradation process of materials and its relation to the principles of solid waste separation. Once the concepts were learned, students developed strategies to guide the community in the correct separation of solid waste using a simple vocabulary so that people unfamiliar with chemistry could understand and apply the concepts. The project positively impacted student learning and promoted personal satisfaction as a result of performing useful service and using their knowledge to solve a real worldwide problem.

Assessing the Lasting Impact of Co-Curricular Service Learning in Undergraduate Chemistry

“…That is why many academic disciplines, including chemistry, have turned to curricular service learning as a pedagogical approach. , Some examples of curricular service learning in undergraduate chemistry involve solid waste management in the campus cafeteria, lead paint analyses in the neighborhood, demonstration of chemistry experiments for elementary students, and preparation of educational materials for local shelters, among others. ,− Such efforts have garnered several benefits for chemistry students, which include (1) improved cognitive goals, (2) improved course-related skills, (3) improved academic, interpersonal, and leadership skills, (4) increased community engagement, (5) exposure to career opportunities, (6) improved self-esteem, self-efficacy, and self-confidence, and (7) increased ability to apply course concepts to real-world situations . These benefits can be attributed to opportunities for chemistry students to see their coursework in context …”

“…Pedagogical approaches, such as service learning, aim to improve student learning outcomes while showcasing the real-world application of scientific concepts. By integrating real-world situations into the teaching-learning process, students can apply the learning they acquire in the classroom and laboratory to address various challenges in society …”

“…By integrating realworld situations into the teaching-learning process, students can apply the learning they acquire in the classroom and laboratory to address various challenges in society. 3 Through community embedded academic practices, such as service learning, the field of chemistry is uniquely positioned to address societal needs. Chemistry students can contribute to their community by supporting K−12 education, improving science literacy, and engaging with the public, among others.…”

Kolaborasi Bersama Menuju Pendidikan Berkualitas: Pengalaman Penerapan Service Learning di Sekolah Menengah Atas

“…Terlibat dalam beragam proyek pengabdian masyarakat tidak hanya meningkatkan keterampilan akademik tetapi juga mendorong pengembangan keterampilan interpersonal, kepemimpinan, dan kolaborasi yang penting untuk sukses di dunia nyata. Siswa yang terlibat dalam pembelajaran layanan menunjukkan peningkatan keterlibatan dan sikap positif terhadap pembelajaran kimia, serta tingkat kepercayaan diri yang lebih tinggi dalam melakukan keterampilan lab (Chaurra, 2021). Selain itu, pengalaman pembelajaran layanan mempromosikan kepuasan pribadi dan penerapan pengetahuan untuk memecahkan masalah dunia nyata (Risisky et al, 2021).…”