The Changing Faces of Work Integrated Learning

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is an umbrella term for a range of pedagogical activities that are designed to enhance the integration of theory and practice. WIL extends across a continuum from low to high levels of authenticity and engagement. WIL describes experiences that are (1) authentically engaged with the practices and experiences of the workplace, (2) located within an intentional discipline-centered curriculum, and (3) a focus on graduate learning outcomes and career pathways. Although this book focuses primarily on the teaching practice modality of WIL, the other modalities are discussed as additional options for teachers to include in the education programs or other disciplines. Each WIL modality is found to require careful designing in order to maximize the rich potential for student learning per discipline. WIL is a valuable mechanism for demonstrating authentic learning and providing evidence of student outcomes. The full benefits of WIL are only realized when the experiences are connected to a real-world context through dynamic and flexible partnerships with external organizations. Two case studies show the benefits of Community Service Learning and Workplace Based Learning. The need for the development of future-proof curricula with the inclusion of WIL is the need of the hour.