Updated guide offers advice on improving the quality of WIL for all learners
Effective and Inclusive Practices to Enhance the Educational Quality of Structured Work Experiences Offered through Colleges and Universities
Work-integrated learning (WIL) experiences such as internships, placements, co-ops, field experiences, professional practice and clinical practicums continue to be an integral part of the higher education experience for many students. Effective, work-integrated learning opportunities enhance student learning and develop work-ready skills outside of the classroom.
Since its publication in 2016, A Practical Guide for Work-integrated Learning has provided a framework for WIL program development and served as an important resource for the sector. To ensure that learning experiences remain relevant and accessible for all students, this new edition retains the content and resources from the first edition, but provides an updated look at WIL with special attention to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
The second edition of A Practical Guide for Work-integrated Learning: Effective and Inclusive Practices to Enhance the Educational Quality of Structured Work Experiences Offered through Colleges and Universities continues to use Kolb’s 1984 theory as a guiding framework for experiential learning, however additional theories that contextualize and enhance quality WIL experiences for all students have also been incorporated. Additionally, three prominent themes — student-centred supports, sustainable WIL partnerships and program education and development — that underscore important aspects of quality WIL programming have been included to highlight current and emerging practices that intentionally focus on equitable access for all students.
Building on the first edition, we offer advice on improving the quality of WIL for all learners; strengthening relationships between employers, students and institutions; and moving towards meaningful recognition and integration of EDI into WIL programming.
The comprehensive guide is divided into eight chapters:
- Chapter 1: Theoretically Grounded WIL
- Chapter 2: Purposeful Experience
- Chapter 3: Reflection
- Chapter 4: Integration of Theory and Practice
- Chapter 5: Experimenting with New Ideas
- Chapter 6: Evaluating Your WIL Program
- Chapter 7: Moving Forward with WIL
- Chapter 8: Concluding Recommendations