Title: Development of transnational work-based learning in the curriculum: an approach informed by the student experience
Abstract:This pilot HEA/UKCISA “Connections” project undertaken primarily from mid-February to June 2012 draws by interview upon the experiences of technology students and their host employers on work placemen...This pilot HEA/UKCISA “Connections” project undertaken primarily from mid-February to June 2012 draws by interview upon the experiences of technology students and their host employers on work placement abroad, and the perspectives of other surveyed students and employers, to contribute to the development of transnational/international WBL in the curriculum. It extends the “transnational employability” theme of related University and Leonardo Mobility funded collaborative projects involving the Technology School, b.i.b. and EISC Ltd since September 2010. All of the transnational work placement students (one in Munich and six in Hampshire) and their employers confirmed that the placement was entirely beneficial both to the student and to the employer. In particular, one of the students developed an online application for students to use in self-managing the process of meeting work placement documentation and other requirements. Furthermore, the students’ perspective that the experience enhanced their employability is entirely consistent with the literature. Outcomes from the project include: • a life-cycle model for supporting transnational work placement in the curriculum • a first attempt to attract students to transnational work placement using social media • a brief analysis of perspectives of the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to work globally with reference to a published “graduate attributes” framework • example internationalised learning activities related to graduate employability skills development However, there is scope for further development of these pilot outcomes. Whilst conclusions are drawn, all the interview transcripts (which have been checked and approved for publication by the participants) and survey data are provided for others to draw their own conclusions. This project resource is written to be as applicable as possible to other institutions, although there is inevitably some content specific to the collaborating institutions. Finally, this “Connections” project, as evidenced by its reports and events, has indeed connected faculties, services, students and employers within and across institutions and national boundaries. It has also led to unexpected benefits including realised and potential collaborations with UK and European employers.Read More
Publication Year: 2012
Publication Date: 2012-07-01
Language: en
Type: article
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