In the rapidly evolving landscape of globalisation and digitalisation, higher education in Malaysia is placing greater emphasis on the development of generic skills to equip graduates with the necessary competencies to compete internationally. Generic skills encompass a broad range of abilities essential for performing diverse tasks across various contexts, including communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork. To reinforce these skills, the hybrid service learning approach has been introduced as an innovative pedagogical strategy in higher education institutions. This approach integrates conventional and online learning with service-learning activities that engage students in community-based projects, allowing them to gain hands-on experience ( Chan & Wong, 2023 ).

The primary objective of the hybrid service learning model is to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application by actively involving students in real-world community initiatives. This approach enables students to not only acquire academic knowledge but also cultivate vital generic skills. For instance, students engaged in community-driven service-learning projects develop the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, address real-world challenges, and enhance their communication skills. Research by Che Noh et al. (2022) suggests that students who participate in service learning exhibit higher levels of generic skills than those who follow a traditional curriculum without such engagement.

In Malaysia, the hybrid service learning approach has garnered increasing attention from both universities and the government. Numerous initiatives have been launched to incorporate this approach into higher education curricula. According to the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (2018) , programmes integrating service learning have demonstrated significant effectiveness in improving educational quality and fostering students’ generic skills. This initiative aligns with the Malaysia Education Blueprint (Higher Education) 2015-2025 ( KPM, 2015 ), particularly its first key thrust, which focuses on enhancing students’ learning experiences. The blueprint underscores the necessity of promoting experiential and community-based learning to develop essential 21st-century skills while simultaneously leveraging technology to offer personalised learning experiences tailored to students’ needs. Likewise, the incorporation of computer-based technology in student learning has become increasingly important, as highlighted in Higher Education 4.0 ( Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia, 2018 ; Rincon-Flores et al., 2024 ). However, to provide students with authentic learning experiences through the integration of technology and digital platforms, it is crucial to design learning activities with well-structured methods and strategies.

The adoption of hybrid learning in computer science, particularly through the use of graphic services, has significantly contributed to the enhancement of students’ generic skills. One of the most notable benefits is the improvement of communication skills. A study conducted by Heidi Hyytinen et al. (2023) found that students involved in such activities demonstrated greater clarity and effectiveness in communication, particularly when conveying complex computer science concepts to peers and mentors. Furthermore, the approach has been shown to foster students’ critical thinking abilities. By engaging in problem-solving tasks and data analysis exercises, students are provided with practical opportunities to refine these skills. Research by Wong & Lau (2023) revealed that students who participated in hybrid graphic service learning outperformed their counterparts in critical thinking assessments compared to those who underwent traditional learning methods.

In summary, the hybrid service learning model holds immense potential for strengthening generic skills among university students in Malaysia. By combining theoretical learning with practical experience and promoting active involvement in community-based projects, this approach not only enhances students’ academic competencies but also nurtures their overall personal and professional development. Therefore, expanding the adoption of this approach within the higher education sector is vital to ensuring that Malaysian graduates are well-prepared, competitive, and capable of tackling future challenges ( Che Noh et al., 2022 ; Heidi Hyytinen et al., 2023 ; KPM, 2015 ; Lorenzo & Lorenzo, 2020 ; Netwong et al., 2023 ; Nsamba, 2019 ; Tomczyk, 2020 ).

Prior studies have highlighted ongoing challenges in Computer Science education, particularly concerning students’ depth of knowledge and proficiency in generic skills. These difficulties persist due to the instructional approach, which offers limited opportunities for students to apply theoretical concepts in real-world contexts. Additionally, many students face challenges in understanding the logical foundations of Computer Science concepts and often struggle with unclear learning content ( Atan et al., 2021 ). Generic skills, which serve as an essential component in human capital development, remain underdeveloped as they are not sufficiently integrated into Computer Science education. Research by Culcasi et al. (2022) and Yu et al. (2023) indicates that students’ generic skills can be evaluated from multiple perspectives, depending on the specific course they undertake. However, the inadequate emphasis on these skills within teaching practices may hinder students from gaining a more comprehensive grasp of their studies.

To enhance students’ learning experiences in Computer Science, the use of graphic-based instructional materials as visual representations of real-world situations has been identified as a valuable strategy. Applying learning concepts to practical settings allows students to gain hands-on experience and deepen their understanding. According to research conducted by Petersen et al. (2023) and Marcus et al. (2021) , the development of an interactive learning ecosystem in Computer Science can significantly enhance students’ comprehension of key concepts.

Likewise, Yang & Wang (2023) stress the importance of providing clearer visual representations in Computer Science education to improve learning outcomes. Their study, which explored the integration of visual elements in programming education, demonstrated that this method enhances students’ ability to grasp complex concepts, engage in problem-solving, and develop critical skills. Similarly, research by Ngai et al. (2023) found that many students encounter difficulties in solving learning tasks and often struggle to conceptualise abstract theories without clear visualisation and real-world experiences. Therefore, incorporating graphical elements into learning can improve students’ cognitive processing by linking visual representation with real-life problem-solving ( Rodrigues, 2022 ). Moreover, the integration of web-based technologies is seen as an effective approach to reinforcing students’ understanding and enhancing their generic skills, thereby addressing some of the challenges in Computer Science education ( Getenet et al., 2024 ).

The implementation of graphical content within learning systems has been proven to be highly effective in improving students’ clarity of understanding ( Netwong et al., 2023 ). Consequently, designing meaningful learning environments requires the use of graphical representations that reflect real-world situations, ensuring that students gain a more comprehensive perspective during their learning process ( Faranak Sahraie et al., 2024 ). Additionally, students benefit from authentic and practical learning experiences that enable them to apply their knowledge in real-life contexts while refining their generic skills ( Marcus et al., 2021 ). To further enhance their comprehension and skill development, students should be engaged in learning activities that provide opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. One effective method is service learning, which integrates real-world applications with theoretical instruction, allowing students to develop valuable hands-on experience ( Andrés-Romero et al., 2022 ; Culcasi et al., 2022 ).

The objectives of this study are as follows:

a) To identify the impact of Computer Science learning activities through hybrid service-learning with graphics on students’ generic skill levels.

b) To examine students’ perceptions of Computer Science learning activities through hybrid service-learning with graphics.

The research framework ( Figure 1 ) is based on the service-learning strategy proposed by Kaye (2010) and the hybrid service-learning approach introduced by Waldner et al. (2012) . This learning activity incorporates graphical materials through a web-based learning platform during the implementation of service-learning with the community.

Referring to preliminary studies on previous service-learning, data were collected to assess their level of achievement in undertaking the Computer Science (Computer Networks) course through conventional methods at higher education

institutions, as well as conducting service-learning projects as their community subject. Table 1 presents the students’ skill levels through service-learning activities, revealing that their skill levels in service-learning activities, measured through pre- and post-activities, were at a moderate level.

Therefore, this study develops computer science learning activities encompassing all aspects related to the design of learning activities with graphic materials through hybrid service-learning, which incorporates five service-learning strategies: investigation, preparation, action, demonstration, and reflection. During service-learning, Google Meet was used as the medium to conduct hybrid service-learning with the community. The ADDIE instructional design model was selected to structure the development framework for hybrid service-learning, involving five phases: analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. The implementation of service-learning activities is based on five phases: Phase One—Investigation, Phase Two—Preparation, Phase Three—Action, Phase Four—Reflection, and Phase Five—Demonstration. These phases refer to the service-learning strategies proposed by Kaye (2010) and are integrated through web technology known as Hybrid Service-Learning III. This approach involves conducting service-learning activities both face-to-face and via the web, as outlined by Waldner et al. (2012) . Student learning activities were conducted over six weeks, while service-learning activities with the community were implemented from weeks ten to fifteen through the hybrid service-learning approach. The following Table 2 provides a detailed explanation of the development of the learning activities.

Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , it illustrates the service-learning activities being conducted with the community and integrated through web technology, known as hybrid service-learning III. This approach involves the implementation of service-learning activities both face-to-face and via the web, as stated by Waldner et al. (2012) .

This research employs a quantitative research design using a quasi-experimental method with a one-group pre-test and post-test approach, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data collection. The rationale for adopting this approach is that quantitative data and analysis provide only a general understanding of the research problem. In contrast, qualitative data and analysis offer a more detailed explanation of the findings by exploring participants’ perspectives in depth, as supported by previous studies ( Cohen et al., 2011 ; Creswell, 2009 ). The combination of quantitative and qualitative data strengthens the research findings and provides a more comprehensive understanding of a social phenomenon. In this study, quantitative data were collected first to gain an initial insight into the research focus, followed by qualitative data collection to validate and further reinforce the findings.

The results of data analysis through the mean score of pre-task and post-task in Service-Learning activities on students’ mastery of generic skills were based on the graduate attributes that need to be mastered in learning after the intervention. However, in this study, only four generic skills were assessed throughout the course: Scholarship, Leadership and Teamworking Skills, Adaptability, and Global Citizenship. A total of 27 students participated in the Computer Networking course. Table 3 below presents the distribution of student learning activities.

Based on Table 4 , the score marks evaluate students’ generic skills demonstrated before, during, and after the service-learning activities. Scores ranging from 5 to 6 indicate a good level, scores from 3 to 4 represent a moderate level, and scores from 1 to 2 indicate a weak level. The measure for the improvement of student activities is shown in Table 5 below.

Based on the study findings in Table 4 , the score marks for students’ mastery of generic skills were assessed through four key skills: Scholarship, Leadership and Teamworking Skills, Adaptability, and Global Citizen. The table presents the proficiency grades of these four generic skills acquired by students through service-learning activities conducted within the community. Referring to Figure 4 and Table 6 , it was found that 12 students attained a high level of generic skills, while 14 students achieved a moderate level. This indicates that pre-service learning activities provided students with the opportunity to further strengthen their generic skills while enhancing their knowledge ( Salhi & Qbadou, 2020 ).

Figure 5 and Table 7 display the results of the pre-test and post-test assignments during the service-learning phase, representing the mastery of generic skills in Leadership and Teamworking Skills, Adaptability, and Global Citizen. Based on these findings, only three students demonstrated high proficiency in generic skills, whereas 23 students attained a moderate level. Similar to the studies by Santos Rego et al. (2021) and Basri et al. (2022), these findings indicate that generic skills can be developed through service-learning activities, as students apply the concepts they have learned in real-world situations.

However, according to Figure 6 and Table 8 , the mastery of generic skills—including Leadership and Teamworking Skills, Adaptability, and Global Citizen—suggests that the majority of students attained either high or moderate proficiency levels after completing the service-learning activities. The service-learning approach provided students with valuable learning experiences, enabling them to develop their generic skills effectively. These findings align with the studies conducted by Lohberger & Braun (2022) , Uotila et al. (2023) , and Muukkonen et al. (2022) , which highlight the effectiveness of service-learning in fostering skill acquisition.

Overall, students demonstrated a positive improvement in mastering all four generic skills—Scholarship, Leadership and Teamworking Skills, Adaptability, and Global Citizen—through service-learning activities. However, only one individual showed a decline in generic skills using hybrid service learning engagement learning. This study’s findings are consistent with Lee (2024) , who concluded that service-learning enhances student engagement and skill development, particularly among those with limited prior participation. Additionally, research by Harrell et al. (2024) , Iniesto & Rodrigo (2024) , and Baabdullah et al. (2024) supports the integration of service-learning into Computer Science education, as it fosters the development of generic skills and facilitates the practical application of theoretical concepts to real-world problem-solving.

From the students’ perspective, the study suggests that web-based learning with graphical materials effectively supports their learning process. This is consistent with the findings of Sola-Guirado et al. (2024) and Luangrungruang & Kokaew (2022) , who indicated that incorporating graphical materials into learning helps students translate theoretical concepts into practice and positively influences their overall learning experience. Moreover, student interview responses reinforce that hybrid service-learning with graphical materials can be implemented in real-world contexts. This is in line with studies by Winarti et al. (2021) and Wahyuningsih et al. (2021) , which found that the integration of graphical materials within service-learning activities enhances students’ mastery of generic skills.

To further support these perceptions, student feedback collected through surveys and interviews also indicated a positive response towards the use of graphic-based web learning, as reflected in the following student statements:

Consequently, the enhancement of students’ academic performance in the domain of Computer Science education has been empirically substantiated through their proficient mastery of generic skills via service-learning initiatives, as evidenced by the results of this investigation. The implementation of hybrid graphic service-learning functions as an educational conduct, thereby augmenting the efficacy of the instructional and learning processes. This aligns with the study by Huang and Qi (2025) , which states that the use of graphic materials in Computer Science learning methods can enhance students’ interest and improve their academic achievement.

Referring to the discussion outlined, a total of eight learning activities were conducted over six weeks in the actual study with students. The implementation of these learning activities was based on generic skills through the graphic service-learning web platform, which was designed to assess students’ mastery of generic skills during the service-learning process. According to the study findings, all students involved in the learning process focused on the content of the Computer Networking course and showed a significant improvement in their generic skills. However, one study demonstrated a decline in the development of generic skills and engagement in learning. Most students successfully mastered all four generic skills—Scholarship, Leadership and Teamworking Skills, Adaptability, and Global Citizen—through service-learning activities integrated with hybrid graphic service-learning.

To ensure the effectiveness of learning through hybrid service-learning, the application of graphic materials is essential, as highlighted in studies by Aslam Katahman and Fakri Othman (2021) , Asilah Anuar & Hafizah Adnan (2021) , and Nur and Halim (2020) , which demonstrate positive impacts on students. By using hybrid graphic service-learning and engaging in service-learning activities, students are able to visualise the learning concepts in real-world contexts, aligning with the findings of Yusof et al. (2019) and Salhi and Qbadou (2020) , which suggest that Computer Science education is well-suited to hybrid service-learning graphic. Additionally, the implementation of service-learning activities provides students with meaningful learning experiences and enhances their real-world knowledge.

The implementation of a hybrid service-learning model among larger academic cohorts across various disciplines constitutes a viable initiative. However, it encompasses several critical challenges that require strategic solutions. The flexibility of this model allows its application across fields such as Social Sciences, Humanities, and Health Sciences, with a curriculum design that is adaptive and aligned with discipline-specific educational objectives. Technological resources can facilitate coordination and assessment mechanisms, thereby enhancing the scalability of the model. Nevertheless, issues, such as insufficient resource distribution, the complexities of establishing and sustaining community partnerships, the assurance of quality standards, the management of complex assessment methodologies, and the maintenance of student engagement, represent major challenges. Effectively addressing these challenges requires meticulous planning, a robust technological framework, and strong collaboration with community stakeholders to ensure the successful achievement of educational objectives and service outcomes.

This work was supported/funded by Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia under Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS/1/2023/SSI07/UTM/02/24).