Unisa recognises the value of practical experience in the academic learning process. Work-integrated learning is an umbrella term for a number of teaching and learning processes, all of which ground themselves in the real world of work. A vast majority of our work-integrated learning modules (in certain curricula) require that students gain work experience and related skills, on site and in a real work environment. This requirement needs to be considered carefully when planning your studies.
Be sure to carefully read your Tutorial Letter 101 covering your WIL modules as it will provide you with the contact details of the WIL lecturer as well as more relevant information regarding the required activities.
Work-integrated learning (WIL) is a term used by Unisa to describe specific teaching and learning practices across a wide range of academic disciplines. These practices focus on combining formal theoretical learning (theory modules) with practical experience in a workplace setting.
What this means for you is that some qualifications may require you to gain authentic work experience and skills before you graduate and enter the job market.
It is important to note that Unisa uses several forms of WIL to help you develop the skills and experiences related to your qualification. As a comprehensive open-distance and e-learning higher education institution, Unisa recognises the value of all these forms of WIL to enhance your learning and better prepare you for employment. Each qualification that includes a WIL module in its curriculum has chosen one of the following WIL forms to support the teaching and learning process.
PBL is a form of WIL that does not necessarily require you to work formally in a workplace to gain the required skills and experiences. This method uses “problems” or real-world scenarios as its foundation, with the goal of gaining extensive, integrated knowledge.
You are expected to “solve” or generate multiple hypotheses or potential solutions by observing and analysing documents to gather the necessary information. You will be assessed based on the work you submit in response to this form of WIL.
Like PBL, PjBL is another form of WIL that does not necessarily require formal placement in the workplace. PjBL involves learning through projects, which may either be real projects located in the workplace or simulated projects that include input from real workplaces.
These projects typically involve research and are supervised by both a workplace mentor or supervisor and a university lecturer. This form of WIL will help you gain an extensive, integrated knowledge base, which can be used to analyse and solve problems.
Like PBL and PjBL, SL does not require you to work formally in a workplace to gain the necessary skills and experiences.
SL uses learning technologies to create simulated environments that enhance or replace your actual experience in the workplace. These simulations might include live projects, case studies, employer talks, role playing, mentoring, and e-simulations, among other methods.
WDTL is a form of WIL that does not require you to be formally placed in a workplace. Instead, it combines theoretical learning with practical components, supporting you in applying both in the workplace. Presentations by workplace professionals or other industry experts may be used to communicate this learning.
WPBL is the most common form of WIL at Unisa. This form requires you to be formally placed in a real-world work environment where you can learn from the experiences you gain. There are specific criteria linked to this form of WIL.
The duration of your placement will depend on the curriculum and required outcomes. It is important to understand that WPBL requires you to actively and physically “work” in the workplace to gain the necessary skills and experiences. This could impact your ability to complete theory modules while you are working on your WIL modules. Additionally, your placement may or may not be in the location where you are studying.
It is also important to note that there may not be a stipend for the time you spend working, but the experience and skills you gain from working alongside professionals will be valuable once you graduate.
It is vitally important that, immediately after registering, you read your tutorial letters, the myUnisa module site information, and attend the orientation sessions and subsequent online classes. By actively participating in and engaging with your studies, especially in your WIL modules, you will avoid potential disappointment.
There are many ways for you to find out what you need to do and what is expected of you. Many of the myUnisa module sites have a discussion forum where your lecturers invite you to approach them for insights.
Another easy way to get the support you need is by e-mailing your lecturer directly using your myLife e-mail account. Make sure to activate the re-route e-mail function on your myLife account so you can receive e-mails promptly. When replying, always use your myLife account, not your private e-mail.
It is also very important for you to be proactive and participate in all activities. WIL is about gaining experiences and skills, which can only improve through exposure and practice. If you do not fully commit to your learning, you are less likely to benefit from the exposure that WIL offers.
You can find a great deal of additional support on myUnisa under the Student Support and Regions tab on the landing page. Make the time to go through this information and support services on offer. The information and support you find there will also contribute to your WIL requirements and or preparations.
WIL modules are exciting because they not only expose you to the real world of work, but also allow you to build a network of people in your field of study. This network can become one of your most valuable assets as it has the potential to open doors when you seek to enter a specific field and, more importantly, to grow and develop your career over time.
Enjoy the experience – it will last a lifetime!
Last modified: 2024/11/15