Percepciones sobre el aprendizaje-servicio en profesores en formación

Service-learning is considered an active, participatory methodology whose objective is to enrich learning with the community, promoting civic values, participation, and civic responsibility. The purpose of this article is to analyze the perceptions that emerge regarding service-learning among 19 students enrolled in Early Childhood Education and Basic Education Pedagogy programs at a university located in northern Chile. The project focused on working with institutionalized children in one of the residences of the former National Service for Minors (SENAME, Chile) for six months within the framework of teaching practice. An exploratory study was conducted, and a self-report questionnaire was administered. Regarding the competencies, capacities, and skills developed, the ethical professional behaviors that emerged from the experience were highly valued. At the same time, the results highlight the high value students place on developing civic and social skills and the ethical principles of the profession they are preparing for, which are attributed to the university's social commitment.