Work-based learning is a way to complete a Bachelor’s (AMK) or Master’s (YAMK) degree. In this approach, you acquire the competencies outlined in the education objectives through your work tasks or other activities. Work-based learning is possible when the content of your job or, for example, volunteer work, allows you to meet the learning objectives. This requires the commitment of your employer or another collaborating partner, as well as the student’s careful familiarization with the learning objectives and assessment criteria described in the curriculum.
In work-based learning, the student demonstrates the skills and knowledge acquired through their work or other activities in relation to the learning objectives of a course or a larger study module. The assessment of the acquired competencies is based on the assessment criteria for the specific course or study module. The methods for demonstrating and assessing the acquired competencies will be agreed upon by the student, the teacher, and the collaborating partner.
If you identify opportunities for work-based learning, discuss them with your academic advisor and any relevant collaborating partners. For the initial planning phase, you can use the planning form specifically designed for work-based learning.
Work-based learning offers the opportunity to develop the partner’s activities with the help of the student. The process begins with a preliminary plan drawn up by the student, which the partner, teacher and student then specify together. The plan includes the objectives of and schedules for work-based learning. The competence acquired is assessed in accordance with the assessment criteria of the course or study module. The partner provides the student with feedback on the development of their competence, and the teacher is responsible for the final assessment.
For teachers, the work-based learning offers the opportunity to cooperate with employers. The process begins with a preliminary plan drawn up by the student, which the partner, teacher and student then specify together. The teacher verifies the feasibility of the plan and approves it. The teacher guides the student in accordance with the plan and the learning objectives and assessment criteria of the course or study module.