VCC Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Instruction
Research - Experience and Highlights
Pam Khinda
Dr. Candy Ho

2021-05-06

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) - Definition
Cooperative Education and Work Integrated learning Canada (CEWIL)

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2021-05-06

vcc.ca

AAA WIL Quality Framework
by Norah McRae, T. Judene Pretti and Dana Church, 2020

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2021-05-06

vcc.ca

About WIL Instruction Research
During COVID 19

v14 Interviews from 12 VCC Programs from 4 schools
v1.5 hours to 2 hours for each interview
vDiverse WIL Activities:
vPracticums / Work Experience/ Clinical
v90 hrs to 500 hrs based on the program length
vSupported and self-directed WIL Placements
vMandatory for Graduation

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WIL Instruction Research Experience
During COVID 19

vLeveraged existing relationships
vBackyard Researcher
vPivoted to Virtual interviews/Focus Group
vUser friendly virtual settings – recording,
transcription, breakout rooms
vAppreciative inquiry approach
vRelationships strengthened/breaking out of silos
vA venue for VCC WIL practitioners to meet their
counterparts
vStart of a WIL Community of Practice
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Key Findings
Pre WIL: WIL preparation embedded in and/or between courses

The basics: Cover letter,
Field trips
resume, interview
Practicum intake interview
Ethics and professionalism
Involving others:
Clinical/professional practice • Learning Centre
Business plan writing
• Alumni
(Real) Case studies,
• Industry professionals
scenarios and simulation
• PAC members
Portfolio preparation
• Prospective and current
Peer review and feedback
hosts
Job Skills Day
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2021-05-06

vcc.ca

Key Findings
During WIL: Checking in to reinforce expectations and curriculum

Site visits with students and employers
Employer evaluations (and debrief with the student)
Assignments (e.g., reflective journals)
Meditation as necessary
Touch back (seminar) sessions
Not all programs created equal: VCC as practicum site;
resourcing issues

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2021-05-06

vcc.ca

Key Findings
After WIL: Debriefing experience and maintaining connections

Student debrief (individual and group) and showcase
Staying in touch with graduating students
Ongoing support for graduating students and alumni
Documented evaluations/feedback from host employers

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vcc.ca

Key Findings
What do VCC WIL Practitioners want?

•

VCC WIL Mission Statement for guidance/consistency

•

WIL community of Practice to leverage existing
expertize/best practices

•

Targeted WIL teaching training/guidance for faculty
responsible for WIL / PD opportunities

•

Adequate resources for pre-during-post WIL support
(dedicated time, staffing)

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2021-05-06

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What’s Next?
Internal and External

v Presentations:
v Leader’s Forum
v Dean’s & Director’s Table

v Research Report – for VCC community
v PDO/CareerLAB – to facilitate VCC WIL CoP
v Publish research report and present at related
conferences

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2021-05-06

vcc.ca

Questions?
WIL Instruction Research
• Pam Khinda, pkhinda@vcc.ca
• Dr. Candy Ho, candy.ho@ufv.ca
WIL Project/CareerLAB
Rachel Warick, rwarick@vcc.ca
Partnership Development Office
Michael Yue, myue@vcc.ca
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