Building blocks of relevant work learning experiences

Key points:

• Relevant work experiences are central to the success of work-integrated learning (WIL) programs. This study explores students' previous experiences to identify the "building blocks" of relevant WIL work experiences.
• A thematic analysis of interview transcripts identified four building blocks of relevance: social integration, optimal challenge, congruence with field of work, and acquisition of knowledge and skills.
• Implications of these building blocks for WIL stakeholders seeking to create desirable work experiences, especially employers and employer-facing staff, are discussed.

What makes a relevant work-integrated learning experience? A WxL study identifies four building blocks (Infographic PDF)

How can educators, employers and students work towards relevant work-integrated learning experiences? (Infographic PDF)