Abstract:

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is often considered and used as an umbrella concept for a broad range of activities. The fundamental idea is to integrate theoretical knowledge with work practice and connect education, work and research. At University West, WIL is presented and defined according to three dimensions: as a philosophy, as a pedagogical method and a topic for research. We believe that knowledge, both theoretical and practical, is acquired everywhere and not only in institutions of higher learning. This generous definition of WIL is on one hand permissive and flexible in application but on the other hand creating uncertainty and confusion. In this paper we report from the experiences of undergoing a thorough review process of a B. Sc. -program being evaluated for a WIL-certification. In order to strategically develop the quality of WIL a decision was made to certify all programs. The goal is to assure that all students are given opportunities to face, understand and reflect upon WIL. Our empirical data which is documented in a self-evaluation report of the media and design programs, firmly pointed to a need for a shared vocabulary as well as tools and methods adapted to support the process of WIL-certification.

For some years the importance of student readiness or employability has been emphasised by society and the labour market. WIL is often considered a key strategy for developing employability capabilities in students by higher education. A typical didactical application is cooperative education, work-based learning or other forms of internship. This demand maintaining and developing partnerships with the surrounding society to provide internships for all students, especially since the concept of WIL is being spread and recognized.

A possible solution suggested by our self-assessment report and in related work is to explore and develop new or existing activities within a course or curriculum, that promotes WIL to broaden the options. This development has also been advanced by remote learning initiatives, virtual learning technologies, calls for internationalization and a recent pandemic situation.

At an early stage in our certification process, an inventory of activities considered promoting WIL was established by all teachers. The purpose of the inventory was primarily to identify courses that included WIL but also function as a trigger for conversations on WIL. We found an array of methods and approaches utilized by teachers in our programs. These activities could be defined as work integrated education (WIE) and hence an important part of our WIL-profile. These findings raised practical questions – How do we define and phrase a vocabulary for communicating WIL-activities and directions for further development? How can we operationalize and describe progress with respect to WIL/WIE? Is there a framework, model or typology that we could utilize?

The proposed typology presented in this paper is based on a previous suggestion; “A typology of WIL”. Key takeaways are an updated typology for identifying, applying and utilizing pedagogical ideas that serve to promote WIL. The typology has been revised and rearranged to meet and cope with all new activities being developed in the WIL community around the world. An important addition is the work or results created by students as a response to an assignment.

Keywords:

WIL, Work Integrated Learning, WIE, Work Integrated Education.