Student responses to a work integrated learning approach in a new media teaching unit

This paper describes student responses to the application and integration of a Work Integrated Learning approach to a New Media teaching unit at an Australian university. The purpose of the work-integrated approach was to attempt to teach students how to collaborate in ‘real-world’ work situations and solve ‘real’ problems as they occur. Data on student responses and learning outcomes was collected by questionnaires over four semesters. Results show that students respond positively regarding the Work Integrated Learning approach in comparison to traditional coursework based assessment. Students particularly identified their own learning and development in the areas of problem solving, ability to work in a team, analytical skills and their ability to plan and organise, as being positively affected. Furthermore, improvements to student motivation, engagement and overall learning at university are reported.