Constructivist Approach applied to Leadership Learning: Life Immersion Learning Model

Abstract

This paper introduces student-initiated projects outside the classroom as an effective method for developing intended learning outcomes ILOs based on Effat university graduate characteristics and national accreditation standard for learning and teaching. The characteristics of the university graduate are based on the IQRA values core values that stand for: adopting research for life, social values, responsible and creative leadership, and effective communication. Furthermore, the academic programs ILOs are designed according to National Qualification Framework NQF of the National Commission of Academic Assessment and Accreditation NCAAA. Effat Ambassadors Program EAP is a co-extra-curricular program with ILOs that focus on developing Effat student as ambassadors of IQRA values. ILOs related to social and educational values and responsible leadership are the most difficult to achieve and assess; therefore a construtivist approach towards leadership learning is described as "Life Immersion Learning Learning Model" LIM. This paper demonstrates LIM by focusing on one of the EAP projects initated by the Student Government, which was to launch a TEDx EffatU chapter for Effat University in Saudi Arabia. This project, as a real life project, was found to yield excellent results in terms of meeting characteristics of Effat graduate, especially for social & educational values and responsible leadership. Another result is the optimum student and teacher satisfaction and involvement.