This project used open learning resources to create a province wide resource that all Post-Secondary Institutions can use in their Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programming. The course supports WIL host organizations in preparing to host students. Modules and learning activities focus on onboarding, project design, and feedback strategies.
WHAT WERE THE MAIN GOALS OF THIS PROJECT?
Association for Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning BC/Yukon (ACE-WIL BC/Yukon) is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to advance innovative and high-impact WIL experiences for students, industry, and post-secondary institutions by providing professional development, networking opportunities, and advocacy for a diverse community of WIL professionals.
Work Integrated Learning succeeds when employers, community partners, institutions, and students collaborate with clarity and confidence. Yet many Work Integrated Learning (WIL) host organizations face barriers such as limited resources, inconsistent training, and uncertainty about how to deliver high‑quality, inclusive WIL. The goal of this project was to provide practical, research-informed guidance on how to create Work integrated Learning opportunities for students that are accessible, meaningful and benefit the community partner and students.
HOW DOES THIS DEMONSTRATE INNOVATION?
This project demonstrated innovation by creating a open learning resource that could be used by all provincial Post secondary institutions. This tool was created in collaboration across the province, and is a open resource that can support all Work integrated learning practitioners and host organizations.
WHAT WERE THE PROBLEMS OR CHALLENGES YOU FACED WORKING ON THIS PROJECT?
One challenge ACE-WIL faced when developing this course was ensuring that the content addressed the needs of all types of Work Integrated Learning. There are nine types of WIL that students participate in across the province, so ensuring that the modules, activities, and resources supported all these types of WIL was a challenge.
LESSONS LEARNED
Throughout this project I learned about the importance of thinking about the curriculum from a WIL host organization lens. The course design needed to balance content and honor WIL host organizations limited time.
TECHNOLOGY USED
Open Educational Resources
PROJECT LINK
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