INTEGRATING SERVICE LEARNING, CIVIC VALUES, AND CIVIC SELF-EFFICACY IN THE CONTEXT OF CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AMONG POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS IN IBADAN, NIGERIA

Abstract

Universities are increasingly expected to produce graduates who exhibit both robust academic abilities and a dedication to civic responsibility. This expectation holds particular importance for postgraduate students who are gearing up for leadership positions in education, government, and various professional fields. This research investigated the influence of service learning on the cultivation of civic values and the enhancement of self confidence in civic engagement among postgraduate students within the Department of Arts and Social Sciences Education at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was distributed to 28 students involved in service-learning projects to evaluate these characteristics. The findings revealed that service learning played a significant role in fostering civic values and boosting students' confidence in engaging in civic activities. Additionally, the study discovered that ongoing participation and 
reflective involvement in service-learning initiatives promoted the development of civic identity, social responsibility, and ethical consciousness among students. These results imply that incorporating service learning into postgraduate curricula is a viable approach to enhancing civic competences and equipping graduates to meet societal demands.