Workbased learning : an analysis of the expectations of staff, students and employers of students placed for inservice learning.
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Date
2000
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Abstract
Experiential learning is an integral part of most programs offered at the M.L.Sultan
Technikon because of the technical nature of the programs. This study focuses on
learning from experience when students from the technikon are placed in work-based
settings. It considers how successful workplace experience are from the perspective of
staff involved with the Dental Assisting program, students registered for the program that
are placed for in-service learning and employers that are involved with these placements,
in the light of student learning. With transformation and restructuring within the present
higher education system, currently more emphasis is being placed on experiential
learning at both universities and technikons.
The primary objectives of this study therefore were:
(1) to examine the link between education, work and personal development,
(2) to document experiences which students lived through during their placements
(3) to evaluate how successful workplacements were from the perspective of staff,
students and employers in the Dental Assisting program.
Two models of experiential learning, Kolb's Model (1984) as a learning cycle and Boud
and Walker's model (1991 ) provided a framework for examining and strengthening the
critical linkages among institution, the learner and the workplace supervisor. The study
looks at student preparation before the placement; it considered thoroughly the
environment in which students found themselves; the difficulties students faced in the
workplace and reflection during and after the event. The study provides a holistic
integrative perspective on learning and the total educational experience of students.
A small sample was selected to afford the opportunity of assessing a lot of information
through interviews. Data was analysed by identifying patterns of responses or embedded
themes from the interviews. As a qualitative and ethnographic research project the results
and recommendations made from the analysis can be utilised to improve my practice.
Although student placements were successful in terms of their learning, there needs to be
adequate pre-placement preparation for both students and employers in order to enhance
the success of the placement. There is also a need to encourage students to reflect on their
experience in order to make their learning more meaningful.
Description
Thesis (M.Ed.) - University of Natal, Durban, 2000
Keywords
Employees--Training of--South Africa., Education, cooperative--Case studies., Experiential learning., Students--KwaZulu Natal., M.L. Sultan Technikon., School-to-work transition., Theses--Education.