Providing experiential learning experiences either within Australia or internationally

What is it?

This strategy involves students participating in experiential learning, such as work-integrated learning, within community organisations locally, nationally, or internationally. It may include, but is not limited to, study abroad for formal credit or formal international exchange programs. Programs which address this aim might be curricular or co-curricular, such as projects within a subject that serve as formal assessment for the subject.

By participating in learning experiences within professional contexts, students can construct critical analysis between culture, knowledge and professional practice. When that experience takes place within different contexts, students gain an expanded understanding of their own contexts and of their discipline. It gives students the opportunity to practice and demonstrate effective communication skills with people from various cultural or linguistic backgrounds.

How do I do it?

Some ways that we can promote students’ involvement in experiential learning either within or in parallel to their core subjects:

1. Develop a practicum subject in which students are partnered with local, national, or international organisations.
2. Involve teams of students in consultation projects for industry partners.
3. Within a subject, set an assessment task that involves students working with or analysing data from local organisations.
4. Incorporate site visits into a subject.
5. Set tasks that include observation of or interviews with local industry partners.