The Effect of Teamwork on Students’ Learning Outcomes in Service-Learning

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of teamwork on students' learning outcomes in service-learning. The questionnaire survey was conducted toward 45 students taking part in the service-learning course program organized by Ritsumeikan University. The main results of this study are: (1) generally, teamwork showed positive effects on students’ activities, supports from others, reflection, and learning outcomes; (2) especially, “task orientation” showed high positive effects on students’ experience and learning outcomes; (3) “appropriate directions” and “feedback for work improvement” showed negative effects on several learning outcomes. Therefore, teamwork is a foundation of students’ learning in service-learning, and appropriate teamwork is important factor for success in students’ learning.