Sustainable development through service learning and community engagement in higher education: a systematic literature review
International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education
ISSN: 1467-6370
Article publication date: 12 July 2024
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to delve into the evolution, trends and implications of scientific production related to service learning (SL) and community engagement for sustainability in higher education institutions (HEIs). Because HEIs play a crucial role in achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs), experiential learning approaches are needed to actively involve students in sustainable development.
Design/methodology/approach
In total, 869 publications from Web of Science and Scopus databases were analysed using a bibliometric approach that included performance analysis and science mapping. Subsequently, a systematic literature review was conducted on 118 publications, focusing on their contribution to SDGs and alignment with United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s fields of expertise.
Findings
The findings reveal two significant trends: a substantial shift from curriculum development (2000–2010) to education for sustainable development (2011–2022), and the effectiveness of experiential learning teaching approaches, such as the integration of SL with community engagement and the use of innovative research methods in promoting the acquisition of sustainable development competencies. Additionally, community-based research, participatory action research and capacity development emerged as the primary topics.
Research limitations/implications
While this research is based on publications from two prominent databases, it may not include significant studies published in other databases.
Practical implications
These findings suggest that stakeholders should incorporate experiential learning activities and innovative research approaches to enhance education in, for and from sustainability.
Originality/value
This study offers a fresh perspective on the intellectual framework of experiential learning teaching approaches concerning sustainability in HEIs.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
A special thanks to the ESPOL Outreach Dean for facilitating the development of community service projects, creating opportunities for research, and providing a foundation for the application of experiential learning. Additionally, the authors extend their gratitute to research project “Assessment of sustainable attitudes and competencies of university students” (FIMCP-04-2023).
Citation
Rodríguez-Zurita, D., Jaya-Montalvo, M., Moreira-Arboleda, J., Raya-Diez, E. and Carrión-Mero, P. (2024), "Sustainable development through service learning and community engagement in higher education: a systematic literature review", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-10-2023-0461
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited