Bridging the Gap: Increased Understanding to Improve Volunteer Teaching Participation
The Awareness Gap
A study on volunteer teaching awareness found that while some students knew about volunteer teaching programs– 40% provided surface-level information to volunteer teaching, but only 10% had a clear understanding of what they entailed, how they functioned, and the impact they could make. The most common misconception was that “Volunteer teaching is only for professional educators” as well as “Volunteering has little impact because it’s temporary.” In reality, many programs welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds to involve themselves, providing necessary training and support in the process.
The Role of Awareness in Volunteer Engagement
A study by Llenares & Deocaris (2015) surveyed 785 Filipino undergraduate students at the Technological Institute of the Philippines to analyze their motivations for volunteerism. They found that personal growth (defined as opportunities for learning, skills improvement, and self-esteem development and recognition (appreciation for the volunteer’s contribution) emerged as the strongest predictors of students’ likelihood to volunteer.
Research highlights that individuals who have been exposed to volunteer teaching through personal connections, social media, or university programs are more likely to engage. Those who have heard testimonials from past volunteers or witnessed its impact firsthand feel a stronger connection and are more inclined to take action.
Beyond Surface-Level Awareness
While raising awareness is important, it must be paired with deeper understanding to ensure that volunteers are prepared, engaged, and committed. 25% gave surface level information, and 6.25% were aware of or involved in an organization/s.
Psychological and ideological immersion cultivates a deep commitment to the cause of volunteer teaching, resulting in heightened awareness and motivation among participants. This profound connection inspires individuals to actively address educational inequalities and actively pursue volunteer teaching opportunities, even in the face of potential obstacles. Immersion helps volunteers move beyond simply “helping” to becoming part of a long-term solution.
Turning Awareness into Action
Bridging the awareness gap in volunteer teaching is about more than just making people aware of its existence—it’s about ensuring they understand its value, accessibility, and long-term impact. By implementing stronger educational campaigns, leveraging social media, collaborating with schools, and fostering community engagement, organizations can recruit more passionate, prepared, and committed volunteers.
Increasing participation in volunteer teaching isn’t just beneficial for communities in need, it’s also an opportunity for volunteers to develop skills, build empathy, and contribute to positive social change. The more people understand this, the more they will feel inspired to step forward and take action.
