Abstract:

Service learning is an educational approach that integrates academic learning with meaningful community service, providing students with practical experiences and opportunities for balanced personal and professional growth. This paper delves into implementing service learning in the context of the "Change Management" course offered at the Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Zagreb. Service learning in the "Change Management" course allows students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations. This paper provides a case study that illustrates how students develop their projects, carry them out, and exhibit their accomplishments. Through hands-on project experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of community dynamics, develop problem-solving skills, and learn to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams. Students actively contribute to the growth of their communities by analyzing community problems and designing creative solutions under the direction of mentors. The case study highlights the project's goals, implementation tactics, and results to show how service learning has a transforming effect on both students and the community. By analyzing the project's impact, this study seeks to shed light on the effectiveness of service learning in addressing community needs and fostering sustainable change.
Furthermore, the paper examines student feedback on the project. The results demonstrate a constant favorable response, demonstrating that the course stimulates creativity, innovation, and a sense of empowerment. Students value the opportunity to apply their knowledge practically, make a meaningful effect, and develop essential skills like critical thinking, communication, and adaptability. Overall, this paper illustrates the usefulness of service learning as a transformative educational technique in the "Change Management" course. Students are equipped to become agents of change by fusing academic learning with real-world application and community involvement. The case study demonstrates how service learning has the potential to enhance student creativity, innovation, and social responsibility while also addressing community needs and fostering sustainable development.

Keywords:

Service learning, community engagement, change management, student projects, transformative education.