What is Work-based learning

Acquisition of knowledge and skills through carrying out – and reflecting on – tasks in a vocational context, either at the workplace (such asalternance training) or in a VET institution.

A training method that enables graduates of all educational levels to gain skills and qualifications that cannot be attained by the formal educational system.

A type of training that takes place in the workplace and structured primarily to provide a learner with opportunity to practice the use of knowledge and skills in the real world.

A theory of learning which focuses on education being based on physical work such as projects rather that book knowledge.

Learning that is associated with transformative empowerment within a professional role.

A Work-Based Learning Programme is a process for recognising, creating and applying knowledge through, for and at work which forms part, or all, of a higher education qualification.

Work-based learning is that learning which happens in a real working environment to develop trainee job knowledge, skills, and professional behavior. It includes learning undertaken as part of workforce development in an organisation.

Traditionally, a term used to describe a mature person in work engaged in a Higher Educational degree but where the learning outcomes are negotiated and thus tailored and agreed between the student, workplace, and university. Includes similar principles to WIL and HDAs.

Various models and forms of work-based learning exist both in training and education. For the purpose of this chapter, work-based learning is defined as courses oriented around work-based activities, which may or may not include a classroom components but will include different types of learning activities with a focus on work-based problems; different types of learning resources with a focus on re-use of knowledge and experience from within the company; different times and places for learning activities with a focus on activities being carried out in the workplace; and different ways that people work and network together with a focus on collaboration in the process of doing work-based activities. Work-based learning is guided by a facilitator with a focus on teachable moments in the course structure as well as individual coaching in the workplace, involving regular assessment with the focus on workplace relevance, and integrating a Web-based environment.

A curriculum designed to allow tertiary students to do attachment with relevant industries for a year (3U1I - 3 years university and 1-year industry) or two years (2U2I).

Term usually used to denote formally accredited experiential learning in the workplace with the emphasis on doing as an outcome.