Service-learning, as a core component of experiential learning, involves student collaboration in real-world contexts, allowing them to apply knowledge and engage with communities meaningfully (Karoff et al., 2017; Furco, 2001; Higgins, 2009). Despite good intentions, service-learning can sometimes unintentionally result in the saviour complex when students adopt a top-down approach and assume they know best for the community without proper engagement or understanding. This qualitative study hence aims to investigate how service-learning programmes in higher education can foster socially responsible leaders while addressing the saviour complex—an attitude that can impede genuine community engagement. By focusing on Singapore, particularly NUS College, as a case study, this research is a long-term project that hopes to fill a gap in understanding the mitigation of the saviour complex within service-learning in Singapore, drawing on Transformative Learning Theory (Mezirow, 1991; Mezirow, 1997), Critical Pedagogy (Freire, 1970), and Cultural Humility (Tervalon & Murray-García, 1998). Employing grounded theory methods through qualitative surveys and focus group discussion with students, the research seeks to determine the prevalence and impact of the saviour complex and how to mitigate paternalistic attitudes, in NUS College. Through this oral presentation, I hope to provide insights into best practices for service-learning curricula that effectively address and overcome the saviour complex, enhancing ethical and impactful student engagement in community service projects and fostering sustainable, equitable partnerships and how these strategies can transition students from a paternalistic mindset to one of mutual respect and empowerment (Morris, 2020; Collins et al., 2016; Larsen, 2017).

Authors:
Gautham S/O Vijayan Kumaran, Harvard University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Mr Gautham is a dedicated incoming student at the Harvard Graduate School of Education pursuing a Masters in Education in Education Leadership, Organization and Entrepreneurship.

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