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teaching methods
learning
student paramedic

Interdisciplinary work integrated learning: a pilot evaluation instrument

02 August 2019
Features
02 August 2019
Volume 11 · Issue 8

Abstract

Background:

Work integrated learning (WIL) activities—sometimes termed student placements, practice-based learning, cooperative education or workplace learning activities—are embedded into university course curricula to prepare students for future professional environments.

Aims:

This study evaluates an interdisciplinary and multiagency WIL activity undertaken by university students (n=14).

Methods:

Pre- and post-activity survey instruments were used to gain perspectives on student expectations and experiences relating to the WIL activity. The survey instruments were based on five common themes of quality within WIL activities.

Findings:

The WIL activity facilitated professionally relevant learning, delivered diverse experiences, and enabled the development of professionally meaningful relationships.

Discussion:

A pilot evaluation instrument for similar undergraduate paramedic WIL programmes is presented for further consideration. Limitations of the study are also discussed.

Universities play an integral role in shaping and preparing graduates for the future world of work. Work integrated learning (WIL) activities—sometimes termed student placements, practice-based learning, cooperative education activities, or workplace learning activities—are embedded into university course curricula to prepare students for future professional environments by allowing the integration of discipline-specific theory with the meaningful practice of work (World Association for Cooperative & Work-Integrated Education, 2010; Council of Ambulance Authorities (CAA) 2014; Universities Australia et al, 2015; Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), 2018; CAA, 2018; Silva et al, 2018).

WIL is capable of many varied forms, and is adaptable to different disciplines and organisational contexts (Jackson, 2013; Universities Australia, 2019). For example, a recent audit of WIL activities undertaken in Australian universities found that of the 555 403 WIL activities carried out in 2017, 43.0% were work placements, 23.3% industry projects, 9.7% fieldwork and 12.9% simulation (the remaining 11.2% were classed as ‘other’ WIL activities) (Universities Australia, 2019).

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Work integrated learning (WIL)
Practice-based learning
Simulation
Evaluation
Paramedic