Socio educational practice as a curricular requirement in Health Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires. A study about the degree of satisfaction in students participating in solidary service learning projects

Abstract

This article analyses the degree of satisfaction shown by students regarding the service learning projects in which they participate, focusing our research specifically on students enrolled in health-related degree programmes. In addition, the paper aims to examine students’ reflectionson the learning process and the acquisition of social skills, which are necessary for professional growth. The research was designed with a convergence of logic through the combination of quantitative techniques and qualitative strategies. It developed asa spiral by combining different actions: the collection of information with attitudinal scales in order to analyse the impact of these practices on student learning (levels of satisfaction and skills developed) and the analysis of group interviews as a consequence of conceptual schemes. The students showed a high degree of satisfaction; they revalued the practice in the learning process and the acquisition of technical and social skills. Students highlighted the worth of communicating with patients and taking part in health management in authentic settings.