Learning and Service (ApS)

Learning and Service in Higher Education Institutions


Pilar Higuera, professor at the Autonomous University of Madrid, shared her knowledge and experience, in terms of the Learning and Service methodology, also known as 'Service Learning' or 'Experiential Learning'.
For the Education specialist, service-learning implies that the knowledge and activities of universities are applied to solving community problems. “Learning while providing a service to the community is very powerful, because we are creating competent citizens, capable of transforming society”, he highlighted.
He presented service-learning as a form of experiential education, which makes it possible to teach civic responsibility and strengthen the community. He explained that the environment, health promotion, civic participation, cultural heritage and solidarity are some of the areas in which university services can be developed.
In his opinion, this learning experience is fundamental for students to develop skills, such as the ability to analyze, organize, communicate, autonomous learning, entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, teamwork and ethical commitment.
“You learn better when you put into practice what you are trying to learn, and you learn more when the practice is linked to a social need, because it creates a commitment”, he highlighted.
This training, aimed at teachers and collaborators, was promoted by CET@UPT – Center for Excellence in Teaching and took place on June 17th, in which Prof. Fernanda Príncipe, Prof. Specialist António Ferreira and Professor Liliana Mota.