Enhancing Social Awareness through Experiential Learning with Persons with Disabilities: A Path to Inclusive Society

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the impact of experiential learning (Experiential Learning) through activities with persons with disabilities on the development of social consciousness (Social Consciousness) and the promotion of an Inclusive Society among students. The research was conducted with 71 students enrolled in the SSC262 Learning Development course at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) during the first semester of the 2024 academic year. This study employed a Mixed-Methods Research approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The findings indicate that experiential learning significantly contributes to students' social development, particularly in six key dimensions: (1) Understanding Others, (2) Empathy, (3) Social Responsibility, (4) Self-Reflection, (5) Cultural Awareness, and (6) Inclusiveness. Students reflected that direct interaction with persons with disabilities helped them become more aware of the challenges these individuals face and fostered a more open perspective toward social diversity. The integration of the Inclusive Society concept into university curricula can be effectively implemented through experiential and practice-based learning approaches, such as Service-Learning, Project-Based Learning, and Community Engagement, in conjunction with the promotion of University Social Responsibility (USR) and the development of Inclusive Education infrastructure. These strategies help enhance students' social skills and cultivate responsible citizenship, contributing to a more equitable and inclusive society.