Volunteering myths and misconceptions among higher education students: insights from an international volunteer training programme

In higher education, international volunteering programs play a significant role in contributing to the global community by providing added value to students, higher education institutions, and partner institutions. These programs are instrumental in promoting the development of a fairer and more supportive society, especially in light of increasing social, humanitarian, and environmental crises. The demand for volunteers to address these challenges is urgent, emphasizing the need for well-prepared volunteers capable of operating in diverse and challenging environments. Therefore, creating and developing volunteer training programs are indispensable within the panorama of higher education institutions' training offerings. The opportunities presented by higher education institutions in the context of international volunteering programs are enhanced through collaboration with entities and organizations committed to effecting substantial and positive global transformations. This commitment includes acknowledging the vital role of higher education institutions in cultivating more supportive and sustainable societies. This study aimed to investigate the perspectives of Portuguese university students on international volunteering, focusing on identifying prevalent myths and uncertainties. Thematic content analysis was employed to dissect the observations made during the initial training period for 12 student volunteers from different courses and faculties from the same Portuguese University. The findings revealed that even students with prior volunteering experience harboured uncertainties about the essence of volunteering. Nevertheless, most participants could identify and dispel many of the myths associated with volunteering. Through discussions around "true" and "false" statements about volunteering, students could contemplate and refine their understanding of the volunteer's role. This reflective process holds particular significance in international volunteering, where preconceived notions can affect volunteer endeavours' efficacy and cultural appropriateness. The results also indicate that seasoned volunteers can benefit from revisiting the fundamental concepts of volunteering. Continuous reflection and education are imperative for upholding a high standard of volunteer practice and fostering a deeper comprehension of the social and cultural dynamics at play in international volunteering. This study underscores the importance of comprehensive training programs that encompass critical discussions about the essence of volunteering. By addressing common misconceptions and encouraging reflective thinking, these programs can better equip students to grapple with the complexities of international volunteering, ultimately contributing to more effective and culturally sensitive volunteer efforts. The findings derived from this study can guide the development of future training initiatives, ensuring that volunteers are well-prepared and critically conscious of their roles and responsibilities.