Abstract:

Learning in higher education participates in the current continuous process of informal, non-formal, and formal curricular training. In the lifelong learning spectrum, curricular formal education can benefit from the contribution of service-learning. Learning in the context of real projects involved with cooperation for development has been identified as a potential advantage for an integral training of the student, retention, and academic success. In addition, it represents a contribution to the social responsibility practice of the educational institution, together with the well-being of people in developing countries. In this context, the design of a service-learning action around cooperation for development in water and sanitation is introduced, with the final aim at approaching this activity-based learning to the curriculum of engineering students in the industrial field. We introduce the interest features of service-learning around cooperation for development in engineering studies, and the target group is identified. Student polls and promoters' brainstorming are the initial drivers of the proposal. Different options to reach a satisfactory design and implementation are discussed around formats and channels, with the focus on a flexible configuration and student-centered learning. The results include the configuration of a massive online open course (MOOC), already implemented and in service, and the design of a blended training action based on it. The conclusions summarize the methodological proposals to introduce this active learning initiative in the curriculum.

Keywords:

Active learning, experiential learning, MOOC, longlife learning, transversal curricular competences.