The Influence of Student-Community Partner Working Relationships on Satisfaction: A South African University Service Learning Programme

This study investigated a service learning programme (SLP), which was established by the Marketing Department at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in South Africa. The purpose SLP to provide community partners (small businesses) marketing services minimal or no cost granting undergraduate students opportunity practically apply theoretical communication teaching real-life business environment. formed agencies and were required establish agency-client working relationship with their chosen (SL clients) (that had little communication) develop campaign plan bid improve performance. primary research aim examine influence student agency relationships on partners’ satisfaction. also effect SL client, measurement variables. A quantitative approach used survey that participated CPUT over five year period via questionnaire. perceptions 107 client analyzed ANOVA determine benefits, challenges experiences SLP. revealed vast majority participating organizations either satisfied very agencies. found yield significantly positive associations perceived usefulness, lasting impact, overall satisfaction future participation partners.