Transforming Service Learning Beyond the Donor-Recipient Dynamic: Examples from Food Distribution and Subdivided Unit Visits
Student Empowerment Theatre (Curated by EdCity)
Overview
Traditional school service activities often follow a ‘donor-recipient’ model, where students distribute materials to communities, fostering sympathy rather than true understanding. The project featured in this seminar seeks to transform this approach by promoting empathy through service learning, encouraging a shift to ‘co-learning and experience’. This model allows students and community members to learn from each other, fostering mutual respect and deeper understanding.
Content Highlights:
1. Paradigm Shift: Move from a transactional model to an interactive "co-learning" approach, focusing on empathy rather than material distribution;
2. Immersive Experiences: Engage students in the daily lives of subdivided flat residents and food recipients, facilitating meaningful dialogue and shared experiences;
3. Educational Impact: Develop critical thinking and empathy by understanding complex social issues firsthand, encouraging reflective practices; and
4. Collaborative Learning: Involve students in projects with community members to address real-world challenges, creating a shared learning environment
The outcome of this project includes enhancing social awareness and responsibility among students, strengthening community ties and mutual understanding.
