Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
TWU's Core Curriculum: Experiential & Embodied Way Of Learning
TWU values experiential CORE Ways of Knowing. Experiential and embodied inquiry invites students to discover a new synthesis of knowledge through integrating theory and practical experience. This experience provides a bridge between traditional classroom study and field-based situations and transforms theoretical knowledge into knowledge in use. More specifically, students develop cognitive complexity by bringing to bear upon a subject or situation that is not part of the regular curricular experience a range of perspectives rooted in different ways of knowing and being in the world. Experiential ways of knowing are found within your core curriculum requirements in classes, throughout your co-curricular experiences, and through Work Integrated Learning opportunities.
What is Work Integrated Learning (WIL)?
Work-integrated learning (WIL) is a form of curricular experiential education that formally integrates a student’s academic studies with quality experiences within a workplace or practice setting. WIL experiences include an engaged partnership of at least: an academic institution, a host organization, and a student. WIL can occur at the course or program level and includes the development of student learning objectives and outcomes related to: employability, agency, knowledge and skill mobility and life-long learning. (CEWIL)
At TWU, these experiences are either coordinated within the Academic Faculties or the Centre for Calling & Career Development. WIL short term unpaid placements such as practicum and field placements are managed by the program coordinators within the faculty or school. WIL longer term paid placements like internships and co-ops are a mix of coordination from the program and the CCCD. Academic programs of study may require a different number of hours to be completed and be scheduled at a particular time of year. There are different requirements and opportunities for each type of WIL. Please see TWU's Experiential and Embodied Learning Guidebook WIL definitions:
Students are engaged in research that occurs primarily in workplaces, includes: consulting projects, design projects, community-based research projects.
Alternate academic study with paid work terms to gain relevant knowledge of the industry or workplace. Work terms provide experience in a workplace setting related to the student’s field of study. The number of required work terms varies by program; however, the time spent in work terms must be at least 30% of the time spent in academic study for programs over 2 years in length and 25% of time for programs 2 years and shorter in length.
Allows a student to leverage resources, space, mentorship and/or funding to engage in the early-stage development of business start-ups and/or to advance external ideas that address real-world needs for academic credit.
Provides students with an intensive part-time/short term intensive hands-on practical experience in a setting relevant to their subject of study. Field placements may not require supervision of a registered or licensed professional and the completed work experience hours are not required for professional certification. Field placements account for work integrated educational experiences not encompassed by other forms, such as co-op, clinic, practicum, and internship.
An “internship” is on-the-job training offered by an employer to provide a person with practical experience. Often internships are offered to persons who have completed a diploma or degree program and are seeking employment. Completing an internship does not itself result in an academic certificate or diploma. If the duties performed by interns fall within the definition of “work” contained in the Act, the intern falls within the definition of “employee”, and the agency using the services of an intern falls within the definition of “employer”, internships will be considered “work” for the purposes of the BC Employment Standards Act. Internships must, therefore, be paid positions.
A “practicum” is part of a formal education process for students enrolled in a public or private post-secondary institution that involves the supervised practical application of previously classroom taught theory related to course study. The students are usually engaged in studies to obtain a degree so as to pursue a career in education, medicine, or engineering. A practicum is “hands-on” training that is required by the curriculum, and will result in a certificate or diploma. It is not considered to be “work” for the purposes of the BC Employment Standards Act.
Community Service Learning (CSL) integrates meaningful community service with classroom instruction and critical reflection to enrich the learning experience and strengthen communities. In practice, students work in partnership with a community based organization to apply their disciplinary knowledge to a challenge identified by the community.
Benefits of Joining a Work-Integrated Learning Program
Work-Integrated Learning gives students a well-rounded education.
It is an opportunity to expand your knowledge and to practice the latest theories and approaches in your particular discipline. It also allows you to develop employment skills, explore career options, and network with potential employers, which gives you a competitive edge when entering the workforce.
Benefits:
- Network with professionals from your industry
- Apply your classroom learning
- Develop valuable workplace skills
- Earn money to help with tuition costs
- Explore different career opportunities
- Build on your resume by adding relevant work experience
- Access job postings only available to work-integrated learning students
- Gain perspective on your industry
- Receive guidance and assistance with your job search
Benefits of Joining a WIL Program (cewilcanada.ca)
For more information on what WIL is and how to find WIL placements, please contact us at career@twu.ca. You may also explore placement opportunities by speaking with your professors or searching through the Career Connect Job Board.