Chapter 1: Work-Integrated Learning (WIL)
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this chapter, the reader will be able to:
- Define work-integrated learning (WIL)
- Identify the different types of WIL
- Explain student responsibilities in WIL
- Describe what reflective practice is and the benefits during WIL
Terms to Know
- WIL (work-integrated learning) – Methods of integrating what is learned in the classroom to real-world experience.
- Experiential Learning – The process of learning through experience.
- Employability – The skills and capabilities required for employment.
- Skills – “The ability to use one’s knowledge effectively and readily in” implementation “or performance” (Merriam-Webster, n.d.).
- Capabilities – A skill or talent that has potential for development or use.
- Reflective Practice – The ability to spend time to assess situations and our participation to inform learning and future behaviours.
- Continuous Learning – The practice of looking for opportunities to learn towards expanding knowledge, skills, and capabilities.
Case study: Avery (he/him) explores work integrated learning
Avery loves his program at College of New Caledonia, but he is worried about graduating from college without job experience. Avery is just finishing up his first year and is trying to decide which courses to take for his second year. On campus one day, he hears two of his peers talking about an opportunity to learn more about work-integrated learning. Then, everywhere he goes on campus, he sees posters for a student info session on work-integrated learning. He is getting really curious. Avery decides he would like to know more and will attend the session to find out:
- Is work-integrated learning similar to co-op?
- What eligibility criteria does he need to meet to participate in the program?
- Does work-integrated learning count for school credit?
- Does work-integrated learning count as job experience?
Methods of integrating what is learned in the classroom to real-world experience.
The process of learning through experience.
The skills and capabilities required for employment.
“The ability to use one's knowledge effectively and readily in” implementation “or performance” (Merriam-Webster, n.d.).
A skill or talent that has potential for development or use.
The ability to spend time to assess situations and our participation to inform learning and future behaviours.
The practice of looking for opportunities to learn towards expanding knowledge, skills, and capabilities.
