Motivational factors affecting student volunteerism towards developing a proposed Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volunteer Program / Ma. Dolores S. Correa-Patag. 6

Thesis (Ph.D.) -- Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 2007.;A dissertation presented to the faculty of the Graduate School of Arts, Sciences and Education, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree, Doctor of Education in Educational Administration. 56

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ABSTRACT: Outreach activities of students are designed to strengthen the foundation of different degree programs of the various colleges in the university. Students are encouraged to engage in different outreach activities, inasmuch as these activities are essential part of a well-rounded education. Despite many school requirements and academic activities, students find time to join in the different accredited student organizations and involve themselves in various outreach activities. This study aimed at determining the motivational factors affecting student volunteerism towards developing a proposed volunteer program of the University. The research data were collected from the respondents using volunteerism questionnaire developed by Clary (1996). The questionnaires were administered to selected students in cooperation with the officers of the Supreme Student Council. A 2-phase process was used in the treatment of the data. After the survey has been conducted, the data were subjected to focus group discussion for validation. Results of the study revealed that some students involved in volunteer work in response to the six categories of motivations or psychological functions identified, attempted to satisfy the values function, where they participated in volunteer work to express an act on values important to the self which is basically their humanitarian values or altruistic concerns. Other students viewed volunteer work as an opportunity to increase their knowledge of the world and to develop and practice the skills that might otherwise go unpracticed, thus serving an understanding function. For others, volunteer work served the purpose of allowing the individuals to engage in psychological development and enhance their self esteem, thereby satisfying an enhancement function. In the case of career function, a number of students engaged in volunteer work to gain experiences that would benefit their careers. For still others, volunteering helped individuals to fit in and get along with social groups that are important to them, thus satisfying a social function. And finally, the rest of the students endeavored to satisfy a protective function and engaged in volunteer work to cope with inner anxieties and conflicts, thus affording some protection for their self-image. More students today are participating in volunteer experiences beyond the college campus. For students, the benefits of engaging in volunteer activities and community service are multifold. Volunteerism promotes good citizenship early on in their lives as they experience the rewards of giving back to the community. Through these first hand experiences, they learn empathy, gain exposure to different cultures, and develop an appreciation and awareness of the struggles that some individuals face. Community service builds their self-esteem, self confidence and sense of social responsibility. Inasmuch as volunteerism posted high rating across colleges, it is suggested that all students should be encouraged to volunteer and experience the inevitable rewards of giving to others. The University, therefore, should continue to support the students' efforts by remaining true to their own mission. The researcher further proposed the Pag-Lingap sa Media Volunteer Program (PLM Volunteer) which will strengthen and enhance the existing extension programs and services of the different accredited student organizations. This will help them realize more meaningful outcomes such as building character, cultivating relationships and strengthening communities.

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