Abstract:

Service-learning is an educational methodology that combines the learning of content and the acquisition of competencies with the performance of community service tasks. It is a project-based learning model, in which students work on the real needs of their environment in order to improve it.

This type of teaching is not very common in technical degrees; in particular, the case of civil engineering, which has a clear vocation for public service, stands out. This work describes an experience of applying service-learning to the bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Burgos (Spain). The case study was carried out within the course "Construction Methods", belonging to the third year, in which students are supposed to have enough knowledge to develop small construction projects.

The role of the students consisted of trying to solve small deficits in the public infrastructures of the districts of Burgos (Spain). With the aim of detecting the real needs of the neighborhoods, they first interviewed the neighbors and social agents of the districts. Then, they carried out small construction projects to respond to the demands raised.

The results were very positive for both sides. On the one hand, the students worked on skills that are not usually dealt with in the classroom, such as information management, interpersonal relationships, ethical commitment, sensitivity towards environmental issues, etc. The surveys conducted show that the students improved their perception of the subject, of the degree and above all of their profession as civil engineers.

On the other hand, the response from society has also been very satisfactory. The neighbors have improved their view of the University of Burgos and the work of civil engineers. In addition, the Burgos City Council has received the projects and has expressed its intention to include them in future urban actions.

Keywords:

Service-learning, civil engineering, construction project, community service.