Connecting Service-Learning and Art for Critical Understanding and Empathy
Timeline: 1/10/2026 – 31/03/2027
Project partners involved: LUMSA, PHW, POLITEHNICA, MBU, UCSIA & UNIBO
In a second phase of the SL4DC project, we pay explicit attention to the relevance of art-based service-learning approaches (ABSL) for the development of competences for democratic culture. By leveraging artistic expression, ABSL fosters solidarity, social inclusion and intercultural dialogue, reinforcing the RFCDC model.
We will focus on art-based approaches that are visual/graphic and collaborative (such as photovoice, graphic storytelling and video walk), as they are easily accessible and encourage participation, among both students (including students with fewer opportunities) and community members (including those from vulnerable contexts).
For the development of ABSL methods, we draw on insights collected from the first project phase, where we will identify existing ABSL practices in European higher education fostering competences for democratic culture. We will pilot and evaluate the identified art-based methods in service-learning courses and based on our experiences, we will develop training materials and (online) workshops for higher education teachers on how to implement art-based approaches in service-learning practices.
Outputs
1) Framework on Art-based Service-Learning (ABSL) to foster Competences for Democratic Culture
We will develop a structured and research-based framework on the integration of art-based approaches in service-learning to foster competences for democratic culture. This framework will outline key methodological principles, best practices and theoretical foundations, including pedagogical and methodological approaches.
2) Training Programme for HE Teachers on ABSL
We will develop a training programme for higher education teachers on the use of photovoice and other complementary art-based approaches in service-learning to foster democratic competences. The training will focus on pedagogical and methodological approaches to ABSL, emphasizing how to implement art-based approaches in service-learning and how to engage students and community members in this process.
3) Pilots of Innovative ABSL Methods
Pilots on innovative art-based service-learning (ABSL) methods will be developed and tested within existing service-learning practices of partner universities. The practices will engage higher education students and community members in artistic experiences to enhance reflexivity, strengthen civic engagement and build a shared sense of community while addressing real-world challenges. The pilots will generate qualitative and quantitative insights on how photovoice and other creative methodologies contribute to the empowerment of participants, foster social agency and strengthen critical engagement with societal issues.
4) Training Materials for HE Teachers and Community Partners
A comprehensive set of teaching and learning materials will be developed to equip higher education teachers and community partners with tools to integrate art-based methodologies into service-learning and to engage community partners in ABSL practices. Guidelines and best practices will be systematized to sustain future higher education teachers incorporating ABSL into their curricula and to involve community members in the process.