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Work-integrated learning (WIL) experiences rely heavily on the development of relationships between the university, industry and often community organizations. As participation in WIL is increasing, the issue of sustainability becomes paramount, requiring processes and practices for effective collaborations and partnerships. This paper reports on an action research project to develop a framework to represent the critical success factors for sustainable WIL relationships. Drawing on reflections from WIL practitioners on what they considered were the critical success factors and a review of literature, a framework was developed, prioritizing three key themes: communication, commitment and compatibility. Within these themes, nine key factors were identified and then evaluated by academic and industry stakeholders in New Zealand, Canada and Australia. Trust, expectations, reciprocity, coordination, vision, learning, resources, reputation, and recognition were confirmed as important factors for sustainable WIL relationships. The framework provides good practice guidelines for all WIL stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports on an evaluated workshop using a speed networking method to promote inter-professional work-integrated learning (WIL) in a tertiary classroom setting. The article includes specific reference to speechlanguage therapy, nursing and social work, three of the seven disciplines that engaged with the exercise. Social constructivist learning theory is discussed with reference to development of work readiness for interprofessional teamwork among final year speech-language therapy students. The practical considerations used in facilitating the workshop are explained, with findings derived from a thematic analysis of the evaluation feedback provided. The key outcomes from the learning exercise identified an increased understanding of diverse professional identities amongst students whilst challenging pre-existing disciplinary stereotypes. Finally, the pedagogical implications of facilitating this WIL initiative are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Universities in New Zealand are increasingly focused on an employability and global citizenship agenda, leading to a proliferation of work-integrated learning (WIL) courses across diverse curriculum areas. WIL exposes students to authentic learning opportunities in a workplace. It is however an activity with inherent risks which may have significant consequences for students, universities and host organizations. This study drew on qualitative interpretive methodology to examine risks related to WIL at eight universities from the perspective of eighteen academic and professional staff. The findings indicate that significant risks for students undertaking WIL relate to the readiness and suitability of the student, the learning environment and student safety. A framework that outlines the responsibilities and conduct of students during WIL is presented. While it is acknowledged that all stakeholders are important in the WIL enterprise, it is the student experience that should be prioritized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Work-integrated learning (WIL) is an activity with inherent risks, different from those that occur with on-campus learning experiences. Risks associated with WIL may have serious financial, reputational and legal consequences for universities, WIL staff, students and host organizations. Using a mixed methods approach, this study examined how risk was defined and perceived by those involved in WIL, across eight New Zealand universities. Differences in understanding were examined and compared across disciplines and university roles. WIL staff perceived health and safety; conduct of students; student characteristics; conduct of the host organization (including exploitation and physical safety of students) as high risk. These factors were all linked to reputational risk for the university. WIL staff (both new and more experienced) need to have a clear understanding of the risks, so they can design risk management practices to help mitigate these risks for universities, students, host organizations, as well as themselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditionally work-integrated learning (WIL) programs document tripartite outcomes for students, workplace organisations and universities. This qualitative research study considers a fourth stakeholder, the client. It examines clients' (n=40) perceptions of the benefits of being part of an on-campus Exercise Prescription Clinic (EPC), and students' (n=22) perceptions of their learning outcomes from participation in a New Zealand university's WIL program within a Bachelor of Sport and Exercise. The clinic provides opportunities for clients to undertake physical activity, training and rehabilitation programs in a social, supervised and safe environment, and is accessible to anyone who wants to improve their fitness for sport or health. The findings reinforce the importance of developing WIL experiences that enrich both benefits for the clients and enhance the learning outcomes for students. Designing authentic industry WIL clinical experiences for future health professionals should also enable students the opportunity to engage with a range of clients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]