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A paradigm shift has occurred in the dynamic educational environment of the twenty-first century, moving away from traditional classroom-based instruction and placing greater emphasis on experiential learning and problem-solving skills (Andersson et al., 2023; Motta et al., 2023). Specifically, work-integrated learning (WIL) programs have become effective educational models that enable students to gain real-world experience and adapt to remote work contexts (Perkins & Irwin, 2023). Recently, there has been a rise in remote work and an increasing need for students to gain practical experience in digital environments (An et al., 2023; Baichoo et al., 2023; Khorakian et al., 2023; McLennan et al., 2024; Zhao et al., 2023).
When students complete their work remotely, typically from their homes or off-campus locations, it is called remote WIL (Kahu et al., 2020). Remote WIL provides hands-on experience and fosters adaptability for telecommuting. Integrating technology into academic curricula enables remote experiences, global collaboration, and diverse learning environments (Hayward et al., 2023). These programs also enhance students’ technological proficiency, a highly valued skill in the digital era (Wronka et al., 2023). Moreover, they develop crucial interpersonal abilities, such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and time management, ensuring that students are well-prepared for virtual work environments (Chakraborty et al., 2025; Jacobs et al., 2023; Singh et al., 2022). Remote WIL initiatives foster an entrepreneurial mindset, provide networking opportunities for future career advancement, and encourage lifelong learning (Apostol et al., 2023), particularly through international projects that enhance cultural awareness and adaptability in multicultural work settings (Billiar et al., 2022; McLennan et al., 2024).
Researchers have consistently demonstrated the positive effects of remote WIL programs on students’ academic performance (Alasiri & AlKubaisy, 2022; Bell et al., 2022). Beyond academic growth, these programs foster entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation among students, enhancing their analytical and problem-solving abilities by engaging them in real-world challenges and utilizing project-based learning methods (Apostol et al., 2023; Duong et al., 2024; Weng et al., 2022). Salm et al. (2023) examined the differences in workplace performance evaluations between remote and in-person cooperative education (co-op) students who completed internships in 2019 (in-person) and 2021 (remote). They found that the most successful co-op students were exceptional influentials and entrepreneurs. Such students’ ability to learn new technologies, as well as their independence, have also been commended (Salm et al., 2023).