Service-learning as a tool for increasing political efficacy and civic engagement at a Hispanic-serving institution

Abstract

Ample research has noted a positive sense of political efficacy associated with increased civic engagement. In turn, the role of service-learning in boosting students’ civic engagement has been well documented. As civic engagement is a desirable goal for strengthening communities and empowering citizens, the role of service-learning in directly increasing political efficacy in students is worthy of observation. In the context of a student population that includes first-generation students at a Hispanic-serving Institution, where service is emphasized and institutionalized, this study examines preliminary data from student service-learning surveys. This study examines whether student participation in service-learning projects contributes to an increase in students’ sense of political efficacy and civic engagement. This first phase included service-learning projects on environmental justice and voting rights in three upper level political science courses. Preliminary findings indicate a modest increase in perceptions of political empowerment and civic engagement.