Subjective Outcome Evaluation of Service-Learning by the Service Recipients: Scale Development, Normative Profiles and Predictors

Abstract

This study validated a subjective outcome evaluation scale based on the perceptions of service recipients and examined the normative profiles as well as correlates of client satisfaction under a corporate-university-community Service-Learning (SL) programs, where university students conducted the SL programs with high school students as the service recipients. Based on data collected over three years from high school service recipients (N = 1854) who responded to a subjective outcome evaluation measure which assesses perceived program content, program implementers and benefits, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported the three-factor model, and the three subscales showed good factorial validity, convergent validity, concurrent validity and internal consistency. Most of the service recipients had positive perceptions of the different aspects of the program. Regarding correlates of client satisfaction, the three aspects of satisfaction all had predictive effects on the overall client satisfaction. Client satisfaction ratings also differed significantly across different activities and grades.