Integrating electronic service-learning into higher education: An exploratory pilot study in computer engineering

This exploratory pilot study examines the implementation of electronic service-learning (e-SL) in higher education through a virtual experience conducted within a Computer Engineering course at the University of Cádiz. Twelve undergraduate students collaborated online with local non-governmental organizations to analyze and enhance their digital presence. The intervention incorporated the optional and ethically guided use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools as a support resource. A mixed-methods design was adopted, combining pre- and post-questionnaires (EMPA), satisfaction surveys, thematic analysis of student work, and comparison of academic performance with a comparison group. The pilot nature of the study justifies the small sample size and the voluntary nature of participation. The results show improvements in motivation and perceptions of learning, as well as differences in academic performance favoring the e-SL group ( p < .001). Students evaluated the authenticity of the experience and its connection to real social needs positively. AI tools were used as support in analysis and idea-generation tasks, without constituting a central component of the pedagogical design. Overall, the study provides preliminary evidence of the potential of e-SL in digital contexts and suggests future lines of research in technical higher education.