Need Analysis for Holistic Service Learning Assessment for Malaysia Higher Education: A Review

Abstract

Service-Learning (SL) demands a thorough and planned implementation process. It also involves many parties, agencies or communities, particularly in the implementation planning and evaluation process. What are the processes involved in implementing effective SL? What are the indicators and elements that need to be attended to in measuring the success of an SL implementation? What information does the practitioners need to conduct and evaluate the impact of SL? While previous studies have explained the implementation of SL, there is a vacuum in knowledge related to the holistic evaluation of SL implementation. Therefore, this article explores and reviews on the need for development of training modules that can be used by SL practitioners and collaborators from Malaysia universities, agencies, and communities to facilitate the evaluation of the effectiveness of SL activities, in line with the desire for sustainable development goal (SDG-4) for quality of education. The finding can serve as a reference or guide for all parties involved with SL, particularly lecturers in designing SL activities efficiently, and ensure the production of graduates that meet the aspirations of the National Education Philosophy. The outcomes of the study can also be useful in improving the quality of services and the research results offered by universities to the community in a meaningful and sustainable manner.