From Knowledge to Action: Service Learning as a Pathway to Experiential Education in Thai Universities

Abstract

Thailand’s transition toward a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy has raised expectations for universities to produce graduates who possess not only strong academic knowledge but also practical skills and social responsibility. However, traditional lecture-based teaching methods remain dominant in many higher education institutions, often limiting students' opportunities to apply knowledge in real-world contexts. Experiential learning approaches have therefore gained increasing attention as strategies to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application. Among these approaches, service learning has emerged as a particularly valuable pedagogical model that integrates academic learning with community engagement.This paper examines the role of service learning in developing student competencies while contributing to sustainable development in the Thai context. Drawing on literature related to experiential learning theory, service learning, and higher education reform, the paper explores how service-learning initiatives help develop critical competencies such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and civic responsibility. The study also discusses current service-learning practices in Thai universities and examines challenges related to curriculum integration, institutional support, and community partnerships. Furthermore, the paper highlights policy implications for strengthening service-learning initiatives in Thailand’s higher education system. The findings suggest that service learning provides an effective approach for fostering socially responsible graduates while supporting community development and sustainable development goals.