WIL in science: leadership for WIL

Work-integrated learning (WIL) is curriculum that is designed to embed the world of work inside student learning. It is recognised as a key means to increase the employability of university graduates. WIL is most effective when it is embedded within the formal curriculum and improving the provision of WIL is closely allied to broad-scale curriculum renewal and requires a holistic approach. For WIL, the curriculum stakeholder group expands from students and teachers to include employers with consequent increase in complexity. The design and delivery of WIL programs is based on three-way relationships that move beyond the university environment. The 'WIL in science: leadership for WIL' project was established by the Australian Council of Deans of Science (ACDS) to begin the task of building leadership for WIL within science and mathematical science disciplines. Specifically, the project was initiated to: (1) establish a national network across faculties and schools of natural and physical sciences that would build capability and sustain growth in programs of WIL in university science; and (2) develop an approach and strategies for WIL for science faculties in Australian universities.

The report summarises the outcomes of the project, including the development of a roadmap to increase WIL opportunities in university science faculties, and case studies of successful WIL programs. The project has evolved into an ongoing program supported by the ACDS.

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