Work Integrated Learning Policy

1. The purpose of our policy

This policy sets out the principles under which Adelaide University designs, delivers, and governs Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities.

It establishes governance-level responsibilities to ensure that WIL activities are high-quality, safe, inclusive, educationally sound, and aligned with academic standards, professional accreditation requirements, and relevant legislation. 

Please read this policy in conjunction with:

• Work Integrated Learning Procedure
• Privacy Policy
• Reasonable Adjustment Procedure
• Student Critical Incident Policy
• Student Critical Incident Response Procedure.

2. Who our policy applies to

2.1 Inclusions

This policy applies to:

• all staff associated with Work Integrated Learning activities
• all students undertaking WIL as part of the academic requirements of a program or course.

2.2 Exclusions

This policy does not apply to:

• work experience undertaken outside the academic requirements of a program or course (separate guidance for these activities may be provided in other University procedures where applicable)
• graduate research programs.

3 Our work integrated learning principles

Adelaide University provides students with opportunities to apply theoretical learning in practice through structured WIL activities. These experiences are designed to be safe, productive, and, where relevant, aligned with professional accreditation requirements or standards. Our WIL activities are developed in collaboration and consultation with our industry partners and students.

The seven (7) principles for our Work Integrated Learning Policy are:

3.1 We provide high-quality Work Integrated Learning opportunities

We offer students structured, high-quality WIL opportunities and partner with industry, business, government and community organisations, as applicable, to support meaningful learning experiences.

3.2 We integrate theory and practice through authentic learning experiences

WIL activities provide authentic, work-based learning that integrates theory with practice and forms part of a coherent program of study.

3.3 We ensure learning outcomes and assessment are clearly articulated

All WIL activities have clearly articulated learning outcomes and assessment methods that support students to achieve these outcomes.

3.4 We ensure WIL activities are fit for purpose, accessible and inclusive

We ensure WIL activities are fit for purpose and, where possible, accessible and inclusive, while meeting relevant professional accreditation or registration requirements.

3.5 We support student wellbeing, safety and supervision

We ensure that students undertaking WIL activities are appropriately supervised, monitored, and supported to safeguard their wellbeing and safety, and that risks are identified and mitigated.

3.6 We govern WIL delivered with external partners through formal agreements

When an external party delivers WIL, a formal agreement must govern the activity and comply with University policies, procedures, and relevant legislation.

3.7 We review WIL activities and partnerships to support quality and improvement

We regularly review WIL activities and partnerships, taking into account student feedback and industry partner feedback, to support continuous improvement.

4. Definitions used in our policy

Please refer to our Adelaide University glossary for a full list of our definitions.

Graduate Research Program means a program at doctoral or master level which comprises two-thirds or more of its assessable content by research.

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is an umbrella term for a pedagogical approach that combines theoretical learning of a discipline or professional context with practical experience, either actual, simulated and/or virtual, as a planned part of the curriculum. This approach helps students apply academic concepts to real-world work and professional situations, enhancing their skills, employability and understanding.

5. How our policy is governed

This policy is categorised, approved and owned in line with the governance structure of Adelaide University and the offices and officers listed below.

6. Legislation and other documents related to our policy

Refer to the Delegation Policy for all delegations at Adelaide University.

7. History of changes