Learning Outcome 1: I learned more about my strengths and potential for improvement while performing community service and teaching poor kids how to play soccer. I came to the realization that I am good at explaining things to kids in a way that they can grasp. I also observed that I need to practice my flexibility and patience because some kids took longer to grasp the fundamentals of soccer.
Learning Outcome 2 : For me, teaching soccer to poor kids was a novel and difficult experience. It was the first time I had ever instructed a group of young athletes who had never played the sport before. I had to use my imagination to come up with enjoyable and motivating activities to keep the kids interested in and excited about learning.
Learning Outcome 5 : Working together with the other volunteers and coaches was crucial to the program’s success. Together, we had to arrange the lessons, set up the tools, and supervise the kids during the sessions. I gained knowledge on the value of efficient communication as well as task delegation techniques for maximising the use of our constrained time and resources.
Learning Outcome 7 : I had to think about the ethical ramifications of our activities during the community service, such as how our programme will affect the children’s and their families’ well-being. Regardless of their backgrounds or abilities, I had to make sure that we offered a secure and encouraging learning environment and treated every child with respect. I also have to be conscious of our position as outsiders and the possibility of unintended harm or exploitation.
Overall, my time spent teaching poor kids how to play soccer as part of my community service helped me to gain new knowledge and perspectives. Knowing that I was having a good influence on the kids’ lives provided me a sense of fulfilment and purpose.