Role of Technology-Enhanced Service Learning in Empowering Marginalized Communities in Malaysia

Abstract

Service learning (SL) provides a fitting opportunity for students to engage with and learn from the larger community. Such engagements are fast becoming a crucial facet of student and academic activities within Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in Malaysia. (SL) enhances pedagogical learning, fosters more durable relationships which extend beyond campus walls and appropriately prepares students for life outside the campus. The integration of community engagement within the (HEIs)’s curricula fosters an educational setting which facilitates the students’ academic, personal and professional developments. (SL) is a learning pedagogy that helps students identify issues within the community, work together and address some of the diverse challenges that have been identified. Today, without a basic knowledge of Information and communication technology (ICT) or digital literacy, it is very difficult to secure employment. Marginalized communities are faced with various socio-economic and environmental barriers which prevent them from obtaining such knowledge. This, in turn further perpetuates a vicious cycle that leaves them within a constant state of powerlessness. This study sought to explore the potential of (SL) in empowering marginalized communities by providing them with basic (ICT) training. A qualitative approach was utilized involving interviews with twenty respondents from marginalized communities. The respondents currently hold jobs which require a basic knowledge of (ICT). The findings indicate that basic digital literacy is becoming increasingly crucial toward the empowerment of marginalized communities in Malaysia. However, the relevant initiatives toward this are sorely lacking. Thus, service learning has a great potential to address the current gap.