Work Based Learning

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Work Based Learning
Susie Bissell, Placement Officer University of
Plymouth
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Introduction
Work Based Learning Introduction
Work Based Learning at Plymouth Process,
Assessment and Success
Problems
Resources and Links
Questions
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Types of Work Based Learning
Work Experience not accredited
Work Based Learning Module 20 credits (80 hours
minimum)
Work Based Learning 6 week placement linked in
with dissertation
Work Based learning 6 week placement including
careers preparation
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Work Based learning in Geography at Plymouth
80 hours minimum
Accredited 20 credits within degree programme
Years 2 and 3 as an option module
Any organisation that's Geography related
Any time from June until February (assessed in
April)
Also at masters level though MSc Sustainable
Environmental Management and soon in new masters
courses in Sustainable Transport, Climate Change
and Planning
Non Paid
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Process
Module leader, placements officer and academic
tutor
Students have to find their own placement
Heath and Safety forms (student and employer)
Learning Agreement
Employer Feedback
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Assessment
Professional Conduct (10 of module)
Academic report (60 and 3000 words)
Reflective review (30 and 1500 words)
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Success at Plymouth
Work Based Learning Champion
Allows students to see how their knowledge and
skills fit into practice
Graduate employment opportunities
Encourages students to become independent
Links University with employers
Students get to try a career
Enhance CV
Allows employers to try before they buy, low
cost/no cost way to get projects or tasks
completed, feel they are contributing to HE
Work Based Learning was great, it really
allowed me to see how my degree and skills are
relevant to employers and helped me when applying
for a job after Uni Michelle Hughes
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Problems
Need support from staff and someone assigned to
module
Students have lots of option modules
Students thinking its an easy option
Some staff don't feel its academic enough
Students have to find their own placement
Fitting placements into academic project
Getting employers onboard
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Resources
Student Handbook
Online module support
Academic guidelines
Employer Handbook
CV and Cover letter advice
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Links
Resources on GEES conference website
www.plymouth.ac.uk/elcetl
www.assetonline.org
Resources in GEES Conference Pack
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Questions?