Development of prosocial competencies in PETE and Sport Science students. Social justice, Service-Learning and Physical Activity in cultural diversity contexts

Background The development of prosocial competencies in university students can be attained through the implementation of Service-Learning (S-L) methodology by carrying out a community service to groups of foreign unaccompanied minors (FUM). Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) and Sport Science (SS) students involved in an S-L experience normally develop a critical way of thinking as they face social conflicts. Besides, social justice education and S-L attempt to help in favour of social inclusion of vulnerable groups. Purpose This study aims to assess the development of prosocial competencies in PETE and SS students taking a Dual Degree Program in Physical Activity (PA) and SS and Primary Education. This is done through S-L methodology, by carrying out a community service to groups of FUM. Method A total of 21 male and 9 female PETE and SS students participated in this study. The methodology used is of a qualitative nature. Reflective diary is used as an instrument for data collection, and content analysis as an information analysis technique. Results It has been observed an improvement in the prosocial competencies of the PETE and SS students involved in the S-L experience. The competencies with the greatest number of references and, therefore, those with a greater presence in their testimonies, include organisation, proactivity and optimism, self-esteem, and tolerance and respect. Conclusion The S-L is capable of undertaking a transformative role which enables PETE and SS students to acquire prosocial competencies in contexts relating to cultural diversity and social justice.