Student Placement Journeys - An On-line collection of video resources showcasing the development of students on one year work placements with the views from their employers and placement tutors.

Abstract

Student Placement Journeys - An on-line collection of video resources showcasing the development of students on one year work placements with views from their employers and placement tutors. At the University of Huddersfield our strategic aim is ‘to produce enterprising and employable graduates'. We are committed to the value of work placements to such an extent that they are 'fee free'. We have produced and disseminated materials showing the benefits students can gain from work placements in terms of improved career choices, salaries and degree classifications. In 2006, we showcased placements across the University with our 'Placement Podcasts' DVD. In 2007, we extended the project further to follow students on their placement journeys. We are currently following 14 students across 9 employers within a range of sectors including manufacturing, design, education and hospitality. On line resources are being developed to explore each student’s journey, including: • The early days of work placement • Well into the work placement, filmed at employers • The employer’s view of both their placement student and the concept of work placements • The student in their final year – a reflection of the benefits of their placement • The Placement Tutor’s views of student development over the placement process. The workshop will explain: • How the project was managed • A critical evaluation of the approach • Learning points • A discussion of what has worked well and what improvements can be made • Implications to teaching and learning and the curriculu