Abstract
This paper presents a field research case applying service-learning pedagogy for a university life experience program targeted at high school students with disabilities, conducted at J University in 2022 and 2023. The study involved open-ended surveys and reflective journals from participating high school students, supervising teachers, guardians, and educational support staff (mentors in service-learning). The findings of the study are as follows. The educational satisfaction of students with disabilities who participated in the program was very high. Students were able to experience the possibilities of college admission and career exploration through major experiences, mentoring, and the support of service-learning mentors. The pre-service science teachers who participated as mentors had very high expectations for the program and were satisfied with the class operation. They reported learning new things while preparing to lead and teach students with disabilities, thereby developing core competencies such as sharing, caring, and a sense of community essential for future society. In particular, pre-service science teachers viewed this as a great opportunity to foster mutual benefit in service-learning classes, practical pedagogical content knowledge (PCK), and self-efficacy in their teaching profession. Participants expressed a desire for this program to be a long-term special program at the university, continuing beyond high school graduation as part of transition education for students with disabilities. Moreover, it was suggested that the role of educational support staff should extend beyond ensuring safety and care for students with disabilities to fostering mutual benefit and sustainable development. This study proposes that service-learning is an effective teaching and learning method with long-term benefits.
Published Version
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