What is Work Integrated Learning?

Western Sydney University recognises the importance of industry participation for students as a way to prepare them holistically for their careers. WIL refers to a range of approaches and strategies that involve using projects, the workplace and community as a site and/or source for learning. As a site, students undertake a project or placement as part of their course. As a source, students engage with work, work-like and community experiences to learn about the professional work, the community, possible careers and themselves.

What is the Work Integrated Learning Framework adopted by School of the Built Environment?

The Work Integrated Learning framework is comprised of four key elements,

  1. Curriculum Design

    This program has been designed with the student’s progress and abilities in mind. Commencing with personal development training then learning Discipline related skills and finally Professional skills. Practical learning outcomes are mapped against the current theories taught.

  2. Development

    The WIL program has been scheduled to commence Semester one 2023. Staff will be briefed to ensure their coursework and WIL are aligned with one another. Quality Assurance and Benchmarking will be assessed after implementation.

  3. Engagement

    An advisory panel consisting of academic and industry representation has been established to oversee and monitor the progress of this course. Via ‘In Place’ employers of choice will be engaged via student’s own efforts and agreements will be made by the University to safeguard the students and to maintain continuous engagement with the employers.

  4. Integration

The intent of this program is for students to gain practical experience in addition to the theory learnt at University. It is intended that this program will grow within the curriculum and be seen as a normal feature of student experience at University. The outcomes of this program focus on the personal development of each student in order to fully understand their personal capabilities, as well as the on-site and professional expectations of employers.