Navigating the opportunities of service-learning placements: An exploration of benefits to host organisations of allied health service-learning placements
Published 15th April 2024
This collaborative study including researchers and staff from Griffith University and the Nerang Alliance investigates the possible mutual benefits available from service-learning placements. Service learning placements are a common part of allied health education and occur where students are placed in organisations with identified projects or needs, to apply what they're learning in real-world settings, like schools or childcare centers, while also helping the organisations they join. In this research, investigators wanted to see what the organisations gain from this arrangement and how these gains can be increased.
The study highlights that while student placements offer potential advantages to the host organisations, positive outcomes are not automatic. To maximise the benefits, there needs to be effective collaboration and communication between the universities and the organisations, ensuring the placements are well-planned and align with the organisations' goals. This strategic approach helps in realising the full potential of service-learning placements, benefiting both the students and the organisations.
Citation:
Irvine-Brown, L., Broadbridge, J., Campbell, S., Robinson, K., Clanchy, K., Baque, E., & Headrick, J. (2023). Navigating the opportunities of service-learning placements: An exploration of benefits to host organisations of allied health service-learning placements. Focus on Health Professional Education: A Multi-Professional Journal, 24(4), 59–74. doi.org/10.11157/fohpe.v24i4.733
