The perception of transversal skills among students of business administration: Gender gap. Service-learning, gender and skills in higher education

• Published in: The international journal of management education 2024-07, Vol.22 (2), p.100970, Article 100970
• Main Authors: Plaza-Angulo, Juan José, López-Toro, Alberto A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Business management education; Gender; Higher education; Service-learning; Transversal skills; Volunteering
• ISSN: 1472-8117
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijme.2024.100970

Higher education is increasingly oriented towards educating in values, based on the acquisition of practical skills. This has led to the development of active methodologies which complement theory-based learning and classroom lectures. Service-learning integrates ethical and social commitment by applying previously acquired skills and knowledge in real-life situations. This study aims to analyse the self-perception of transversals skills among students of business administration through a service-learning and the possible influence of gender. A questionnaire comprising 57 variables using a Likert scale was administered to a sample of 210 students, the data were analysed, and statistic significance tests were carried out. The results suggest there is a positive relationship between participation in the service-learning activity and the level of skill, especially for ethical and social skills, with significant differences by gender. This work aims to contribute to the consolidation of service-learning as a tool for the acquisition of ethical and social skills at universities, which is so important for future managers of companies and organisations. •The service-learning is related to a higher level of skills.•Women who participated in the service-learning show a higher level of skills.•The probability of participating in service-learning is greater in women.•Gender does not influence those who have not participated in the service-learning.