Exploring youth empowerment through service learning in secondary schools

Date of Award

8-2016

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Master of Education (M. Ed.)

Department

Professional Development Centre, Karachi

Abstract

The traditional method of teaching in the different types of schools in Pakistan is mainly a transactional method with the teacher as the expert and the student as the more passive learner. The result is that students do not reach their full potential, and they are often ill prepared to step into the professional world. They are uncertain and are not aware how to contribute positively to their societies and country. Transactional learning also does not provide opportunities for those who are not academically inclined. This study has explored the effect of a Service Learning Program on the lives of the young people and on the development of their communities. The research was designed to examine the skills and attributes that young people gain by participating in a Service Learning Program, and how this would empower them. The research used a qualitative approach; data was collected through interviews that were conducted in five schools. These schools were chosen for their variety of the types of schools and further divided into varied fee structures for the private schools. The findings that emerged showed that students not only developed a host of personal and professional skills, but they also experienced a transformation in attitude. They became empowered and committed to contribute to the well-being of their societies. The impact on Community Development varied in the five schools and depended on the kind of projects the students had implemented, as well as on the sustainability of their project, and on community members' engagement. Including Service Learning in the Pakistan curriculum for secondary schools would contribute to a more holistic development of youth and would connect youth to their society and economy.

This document is available in the relevant AKU library

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