Work-Integrated Learning at the Engineering School at Vongchavalitkul University

An engineering school is under increasing pressure to re-evaluate the place of practice in its programs and there are increasing demands for workplace-based experiences to be built into undergraduate degrees. The paper reports on an extended responsive case study conducted in the Engineering School at Vongchavalit University, Thailand during 2008-2010. The findings point towards a work-integrated learning (WIL) model that can be used to develop courses based around a set of key challenges that learners need to face, criteria for the university’s construction of worthwhile activities, and the principles of procedure that are required in order to implement them. It is suggested that university curriculum planners should concentrate on a process model of teaching and learning rather than on the more traditional models. This program since it commenced operation has received positive feedback from both placement providers and students. The work-integrated learning program offers a “win-win” situation for students, the university and placement providers.