Remote work-integrated learning experiences: Student Perceptions | International Journal of Work Integrated Learning

The COVID-19 pandemic required a quick adaptation in the way work-integrated learning programs are offered. While not suitable for all types or disciplines of WIL, this disruption has led to many WIL experiences occurring remotely, that is, students working for organizations from home. Students’ perceptions of their WIL experiences have previously been examined, but there is little literature investigating students’ perceptions of remote WIL, and how host organizations can best support their learning in a remote working context. Organizational research conducted on remote employees over the past two decades has identified important considerations, such as flexibility, productivity, engagement, and commitment. In the present study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 50 co-operative education students and a grounded theory approach was taken to analyze the transcripts. Findings reveal the importance students associate with socialization, productivity, and meaningful work in the remote context. Study limitations and directions for future research are also discussed.