Evaluating the WIL experiences of engineering and the built environment students (part 2)

The professional bodies that accredit degrees in our faculty require students to complete periods of work experience. Recent initiatives to promote work integrated learning (WIL) provided an opportunity to explore students’ experiences of these placements. We administered an electronic survey comprising quantitative and openended questions. Key findings from the open-ended questions are presented here. Students reported both positive and negative aspects of their placements. Most considered the experience to be valuable and one that complemented their studies. They felt that the placements enhanced their understanding of their chosen careers and improved their career prospects. Students also outlined difficulties in obtaining information on WIL and in securing placements. Maintaining a balance between university and work requirements, and the requirements and expectations of the realworld work place were problematic for some students. As well as confirming the important benefits of WIL, this study highlights strategies for enhancing students’ experience of their placements.