Exploring the institutionalisation of Service-Learning at the Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Abstract

Service-Learning (SL) is emerging within Spanish universities as a key methodology for opening the institution to society, responding to social demands, and adopting a policy of social responsibility aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Within this framework, the Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC) is currently undergoing a process of institutionalising SL. The primary objective of this study was to conduct an exploratory qualitative investigation using deductive analysis of the SL initiatives developed at the ULPGC that contribute to its institutionalisation. Through this analysis, a critical evaluation of the current situation was sought, identifying its strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This evaluation facilitated the identification of opportunities and areas for enhancement in the institutional consolidation of SL at the ULPGC. Keywords: University Service-Learning, institutionalisation, Education for Global Citizenship, ULPGC, educational innovation, university social responsibility