Service-Learning in Sustainable Business Course Spurs Interactive and Transformative Learning

This study presents reflections from the Introduction to Sustainable Business course. Thirty-five students from various courses of the Faculty of Entrepreneurship and Business, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, participated in this course for this semester. The course applied a service-learning pedagogical method to link lecture theory with real-world practice. Data were collected based on student reflections using both qualitative methods. Embedding the service-learning model in business courses focusing on sustainability is the first in the local context and is an interactive transformational innovation in education. Data were analyzed using WebQDA software to interpret the textual data. Based on the reflection, it was proven that this course has improved the students’ professional and personal development. This study is significant for enhancing education through service-learning. The findings also reveal gaps in soft skills like communication and teamwork, guiding educators on necessary improvements. Additionally, students showed positive attitudes toward community engagement, underscoring the role of service-learning in fostering social responsibility. This study underscores the potential of service-learning as an innovative approach to higher education, offering a replicable framework for promoting transformative learning and preparing graduates for the demands of sustainable business practice.