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Work-based learning (WBL) is an educational method that immerses learners in the workplace, bridging the gap between theoretical classroom learning and practical, real-world work experiences.
In this article, we’ll be exploring five of the most common types of WBL, in addition to the benefits and challenges come with this style of learning.
Apprenticeships are the archetype of WBL. They forge a path to skilled trade qualifications such as plumbing, carpentry, baking or horticulture. The learner spends a large amount of time in the work environment, undergoing practical-based learning to grasp the requirements of the job. Full-time apprenticeships typically take four years to complete, six years for part-time, with roughly 1,500 work hours to be logged in total. Every apprenticeship includes a training contract between the apprentice and the employer.
Apprenticeships can give learners the opportunity to earn an income while completing a qualification, and even include the possibility of time-based or competency-based pay increases during the course[3].
Learners undergoing apprenticeships are evaluated regularly to measure their efficacy, with everything reported back to the RTO, to ensure that government compliance is met. If the student dazzles their employer, they may be offered a full-time job when the apprenticeship is complete—the first exciting rung on their chosen career ladder.
RTOs can offer learners a leg up by implementing a digital Work-Based Learning tool that gives learners a retainable logbook they can use as a portfolio when looking for jobs. Digitising the management of WBL also provides better oversight over learner progress and sentiment throughout their on-the-job learning experience.
Traineeships work similarly to apprenticeships, but with a wider scope of vocational career options that aren’t limited to skilled trades. For example, marketing, business, or fitness qualifications. This type of work-based learning tends to be shorter (1-3 years), with the same number of weekly hours as apprenticeships: 38 hours full-time, and 15 hours part-time.
As with apprentices and traineeships, Structured Work Placements (SWPs, also known as service learning) achieve a specific, accredited competency, but are much shorter, typically lasting between 5-10 days. Aged care is an industry that typically uses placements, with students being required to complete a 120 hour stint in an aged care facility as part of their course. SWP can be mandatory or optional, depending on the selected course.
In the VET industry, professional development is when trainers and teachers maintain their skills, so that they can continue to effectively train students. This is an ASQA requirement.
Unlike the above types of WBL, work experience doesn’t result in an accreditation, but focuses on providing the student with real-world experience within a profession. From the learner’s perspective, work experience is a great way to develop their careers, on a paid or unpaid basis.
The length of an internship can vary greatly, lasting anywhere between a single day to three months.
Work experience and internships can be used by employers to attract fresh talent to their company.
RTOs have traditionally used paper to manage the whole work-based learning process. Work-based learning management can become complex quickly for RTOs when managing a cohort of learners over hundreds of hours, the relationship with the host employer and supervisor, and tracking progression.
Digitising and automating apprenticeship, traineeship and work placements through a Student Management System gives RTOs complete and secure management, from placement setup to completion.
These days, more and more RTOs are ditching the paper for an online solution, reaping the benefits of:
Learn more about how RTOs are digitising their work-based learning management here.
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The Celebrant Institute has experienced transformative outcomes from implementing aXcelerate. Read the case study to find out more.
Martin Powell is the CEO of the VET Development Centre, whose experience working with ACPET and on the National Advisory for Tertiary Education Skills and Employment has established him as a prominent leader in the VET industry. He sits down with Reay Mackay, founder and managing director of aXcelerate, to discuss his experiences in the industry.
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