Civic Engagement and Service Learning for Medical Students: A Phenomenological Study of Transformation

Service learning is an effective academic technique that emphasizes integration of course instruction with outside community service and allows for a more enriched learning experience by promoting critical reflection. With medical students encountering a growing diversity in patients, service learning is essential in linking academic learning with their community experiences. This study was conducted at a local medical school using service learning programs in underserved communities. The purpose of this study is to understand the experience medical students had in a service learning program involved in some underserved communities. This study implemented a phenomenological research design in which semi-structured interviews were used to collect information. Spradley’s Developmental Research Sequence implemented both domain and taxonomic analysis. This study revealed that medical students were able to gain skills in leadership, clinical practice, compassion, and a greater understanding of the social realities of the underserved. Community service, serving communities, student learning and institutional support emerged as themes that contributed to student transformation. The potential of this study would provide insights that may help other medical school service learning programs contribute to developing a sense of lifelong civic engagement