E-service learning

Service learning (SL) and e-service learning (eSL or vSL) are pedagogical approaches in which students work actively in multidisciplinary networks with real-life problems. Even though the learning takes place outside the classroom walls, it is strongly related to the curriculum. (Practical guide on e-Service-Learning in response to COVID-19, 2020.) Service learning and e-service learning deepen what has been learned on a practical level, which is crucial in many sectors such as creative industries. The key to learning is to be able to work actively with the challenges and opportunities of real life. Service learning and e-service learning are approaches that blurs the boundaries of traditional education, and where competence and learning is recognized in a new way. (Practical guide on e-Service-Learning in response to COVID-19, 2020.)

What separates e-service learning from traditional service learning is the strong utilization of digital methods, tools, and environments. In e-service learning, activities are either partly or entirely in digital environments. Thus, digital tools enable, for example, activities without geographical restrictions (Waldner, McGorry & Widener 2012). It can be said that e-service learning has developed as part of a wider social development, during which the importance of digital methods, platforms and technology has begun to be emphasized. The change was further accelerated by the COVID 19 pandemic, during which the use of digital methods increased even more. All in all, it is known that the use of digital methods and platforms in working life is an increasingly important part of working life skills.

E-service learning is great opportunity to learn by doing, get supported and working life-oriented experience. Hence it is good to pay attention to planning the implementation. It is important to ensure that the student receives, for example, sufficient support and feels that she or he is part of the team, even though working remotely. To improve learning experience, e-service learning also includes guidance and reflection (Practical guide on e-Service-Learning in response to COVID-19, 2020). In addition, according to Michael J. Figuccio (2020) “In e-service-learning, students have regular contact with their instructor, peers, and community partner”. E-service learning is both guided and supported activity at its best, but it is also an opportunity for students to network.

Possible obstacles to overcome

As previously mentioned, the surrounding societies and communities are increasingly networked. The concept of e-service learning enables building bridges between different industries. However, working in multidisciplinary networks requires co-operation skills and the ability to look at things from new and different perspectives. In addition, actors from different industries and backgrounds must be able to find and use shared professional language. Even conflicts can occur when different operating models and needs are reconciled. The key is the ability to find workable solutions by harmonizing different ways and ideas. On the other hand, in multidisciplinary collaboration, there must be an opportunity to challenge and permission to ask why things are done in a certain way.

A stupid question is the question not asked.

Key considerations

What issues or challenges come up? How are they solved? What can be learned from conflict situations or challenges? How can newly learned and new information be disseminated?

At best, difficult situations open a new way of thinking for the entire group of actors and are great places for learning. Thus, the questions that arise benefit all parties involved. Service learning and e-service learning can be, at their best, a learning process for the entire group of actors, which helps structure own activities.

Aspects related to structures, financial and even legislation can sometimes cause challenges in the implementation of e-service learning. If the use of platforms and softwares is heavily regulated in the industry, building cooperation can sometimes require a special effort. For example, in the social and health sector, data protection and information security are more regulated. To ensure a functioning collaboration, it is necessary to ensure that there are suitable channels, platforms and software for cooperation and activities. On the other hand, it is also important to remember when planning the e-service concept that students may need support in utilizing digital methods and techniques (Waldner, McGorry & Widener 2012.)