Service learning during lockdown: Different ways to help

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness and attractiveness of service learning methodologies for students in the field of business and economics. The study used content analysis to evaluate students’ perceptions. Data were collected from 21 students taking part in a service-learning project linked to motivating people forced to work during the Covid-19 lockdown in Spain, using reflection questions. The results show a better understanding of the concept of motivation at the time that confirm the development of professional skills such as teamwork, creativity or communication skills. Likewise, the students valued positively the time needed to prepare the project as well as the project’s mandatory nature. An application in the field of business and economics is carried out beyond the traditional actions that, in most cases, did not generate a significant service to the community. Choosing a social objective to which the student is highly connected significantly improves the project’s results.