Work-based learning impact study

TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a synthesis of research projects at six higher education institutions to explore their respective experiences of engaging in work-based learning, and the impact that the learning had.

Abstract: This synthesis brings together the outputs of research projects at six higher education institutions. Researchers were identified by each of the universities to conduct semi-structured interviews with employees (former ‘students’) and their employer to explore their respective experiences of engaging in work-based learning, and the impact that the learning had. The evidence indicates that higher education programmes of study have had a positive impact on employers and their employees. The benefits of this form of workforce development extend well beyond enhancing an individual’s skills to the exchange or generation of new knowledge (in the workplace). That said, the skills that are developed can be both technically specific for a job role, function or sector of work, as well as generic in nature. Moreover, the individual employees have benefited in a way that has been described as ‘capability extending’ in terms of attitudes and approaches to work. They have also gained a wider appreciation of how what they do fits into the ‘bigger picture’ and this has led to increased confidence in their performance at work. Supporting the development of employees in this way has enabled employers to strengthen the human capital of their organisations irrespective of whether the intervention was a short, business-focused programme of higher education or a full programme leading to an HE award.