Overview

The Quality Assurance Agency (2018, p.1) define work-based learning as: “learning through work, learning for work and/or learning at work. It consists of authentic structured opportunities for learning which are achieved in a workplace setting or are designed to meet an identified workplace need. This type of learning typically has a dual function of being designed to meet the learning needs of the employees, developing their knowledge, skills and professional behaviours, and also meeting the workforce development needs of the organisation”.

Work-related refers to educational activities and experiences that are directly linked to the world of work and aimed at preparing individuals for future employment. It encompasses a broad range of initiatives and programs designed to enhance students' understanding of the workplace, develop relevant skills, and facilitate the transition from education to employment. Work-related learning aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping individuals with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to succeed in the workforce.

Work-related / work-based learning at the University of Bedfordshire

University Bedfordshire definitions of work-based learning, work as a study mode, work-integrated learning and work-related learning are available via the Academy document library

In the context of the University of Bedfordshire:

• Work-based learning integrates real-world work experiences with academic learning. It provides students with opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in practical work settings, gaining hands-on experience and developing essential skills directly relevant to their chosen fields. Work-based learning can take various forms, including internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing. Work based learning can involve collaboration between universities and employers to design and implement structured learning experiences. Through work-based learning, students can deepen their understanding of industry practices, build professional networks, and enhance their employability by acquiring relevant competencies.
  
  
• Work-related learning refers to educational activities and experiences that are directly linked to the world of work and aimed at preparing individuals for future employment. It encompasses a broad range of initiatives and programs designed to enhance students' understanding of the workplace, develop relevant skills, and facilitate the transition from education to employment. Work-related learning aims to bridge the gap between education and employment by equipping individuals with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to succeed in the workforce.
  
  
  

Work-related / work-based learning requirements at the University of Bedfordshire

All courses must:

• Have a minimum of 15 credits equivalent of work-based/work-related learning at every level of every undergraduate course.
• Use a range of work-based/work-related learning categories to be realistic of scale, work experience availability and resources.

By integrating these work-related and work-based learning, a curriculum can be created that aligns academic learning with real world experience. This will enhance student’s confidence and self-efficacy in their preparedness for the ever-changing labour market.

Approaches to embed work based / work related learning into the curriculum

• Employability Units: Create a comprehensive employability unit that equips students with the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed for the job market.
  
  
• Bedfordshire Career Development Award: Embed the award and utilise the opportunities within it to increase students energumen with relevant activities.
  
  
• Handshake: Encourage students to login to validate their accounts. This platform provides a networking platform with employers and real-life work-based learning opportunities.
  
  
• Internships: Establish and utilise existing industry partnerships with companies to provide students with hands-on experience.
  
  
• Projects: Integrate real world projects into the curriculum allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
  
  
• Industry Guest Speakers: Invite professionals from chosen industries to share insights, experience and sector/ industry trends.
  
  
• Site Visits: Organise visits to workplaces allowing students to witness the world of work in operation and gain a better understanding of the work environment.
  
  
• Collaborative Projects with Industry: Engage with your industry networks in collaborative projects which offer students opportunities to work on real life challenges.
  
  
• Mentoring Programmes: Establish mentoring programmes to connect your students with experienced professionals who can guide and provide industry specific advice.
  
  
• Case Studies: Use real industry case studies to encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  
  
• Simulation: Use role playing to mimic workplace scenarios to understand professional behaviours and enhance practical skills.
  
  
• Professional Development Workshops: Contact the Careers & Employability Service to provide workshops on professional development skills to prepare students for jobs in highly skilled employment.
  
  
• Networking Events: Facilitate networking events where students can interact with industry professionals to gain knowledge of employer expectations and access potential opportunities.

A dedicated Course Audit and Planning toolkit is available for academics to support identification of potential employability gaps and planning within the curriculum. (See “Curriculum Framework: Careers & Employability – Course Audit and Planning Toolkit”, available via the Academy document library