Work-related, experiential learning forms a significant part of many academic programs at Flinders University and is highly valued by students and employers. Read on to find out more about WIL and how it can benefit you and your students.
WIL Policy Links
Work-Integrated Learning Policy
Guidelines for the Design of Work-Integrated Learning Topics
Administrative Procedures for Student Work-Integrated Learning Placements
What is Work-Integrated Learning?
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is the term normally used to describe directed or supported educational activities that integrate theoretical learning with its application in the workplace. Flinders University places an emphasis on integration as a key element of WIL, and recognises the importance of student-centered learning as a focus for its delivery.
Work-Integrated Learning that is intentional, organised, recognised and accredited by the University can provide powerful learning experiences for students and staff. The Vice-Chancellor has made a clear commitment to WIL, and has initiated an exploration of WIL becoming an explicit feature of all undergraduate programs. The aim would be to ensure that students develop a truly integrated approach to learning through a combination of academic and work-related activities.
Such commitment builds upon the already significant levels of WIL participation across the University. An audit ( Practicum Audit Report 2007.pdf (PDF 621KB) ) of Work-Integrated Learning programs conducted at the University in 2007 found that over a third of our students were enrolled in topics requiring specific practicum, work experience or Work-Integrated Learning placements, and also identified a similar percentage of academic and general staff involved with the co-ordination, management, supervision and teaching of WIL activities. With the inclusion of simulated workplace settings on campus and assessment activities designed to simulate authentic workplace activities or requirements, Flinders is well on track towards providing WIL opportunities for the majority of undergraduate students.
Managing Work-Integrated Learning Workshops
It is essential that the University adequately prepares students to ensure Work-Integrated Learning opportunities are maximised. This requires University staff to be conversant in managing the organisation, supervision, monitoring and assessment of WIL activities.
All academic and general staff with an involvement in WIL activities such as placements, practicum and work experience are therefore required to complete a specifically designed workshop program. These workshops are compulsory for all new staff involved in leading and organising WIL activities and may also provide new and relevant information for staff who are managing established programs.
These workshops cover a variety of topics, including:
- establishing duty of care
- generating and preparing positive learning environments
- preparing workplace supervisors
- developing effective internal organisational procedures for managing programs.
PrePlace: An on-line WIL preparation program for use across disciplines
PrePlace is an online program designed to provide guidance to students prior to commencement in a Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) placement. It provides students with information leading to knowledge acquisition and the establishment of a firm foundation for participating in a successful WIL experience. PrePlace is an update to and incorporates material from the WIL Online Preparation Practicum Program (2003).
PrePlace is multi-disciplinary in its approach. It conveys key information on Flinders University's policy requirements and procedures including occupational health and safety, problem solving tasks (using case study scenarios), guidance on utilising feedback, contexts of organisations, professional attitudes and skills.
For more information on using PrePlace in your WIL program email wil@flinders.edu.au
Work-Integrated Learning Forum
This forum provides an opportunity for all staff involved in WIL activities to discuss common issues, share experiences and expertise, and feed into proposals for the strategic management and organisation of these activities and their implementation across the University.
