Motivation and Orientation: Faculty Perspectives on Development and Persistence in Service Learning and Community Engagement

Abstract

Quality service learning and community engagement (S-LCE) in higher education involves faculty and staff working alongside community members and students for mutual benefit. We investigate explanations, motivations, and intentions of faculty that contribute to the sustained commitment for S-LCE work. Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews across two institutions of higher education. Results indicate that faculty rely on motives connected to student learning and community impact and that faculty approach S-LCE from a disciplinary or social change orientation.