Assessing the value: Work‐based learning placements for post‐graduate human resource development students?

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of the pilot study reported on here was to identify some of the more elusive “costs and benefits” of work‐based learning (WBL) placements. This was addressed by exploring the views and experience of a small number of human resource development (HRD) professionals who currently offer supervised work‐based learning placements to full‐time post‐graduate HRD students.

Design/methodology/approach

The small qualitative study outlined was a pilot, focused initially on the perceptions of one set of stakeholders within the placement process, the HRD professionals. By means of questionnaires and interviews the participants were invited to reflect on their interpretation of the tangible and intangible costs and benefits to the organisation, the supervisor/mentor, the student and the university.

Findings

The findings imply that there are a number of non‐financial costs and benefits that may not be widely recognised but which may have significance when seeking/agreeing placement opportunities.

Research limitations/implications

This is a small‐scale study, and may have limited transferability.

Practical implications

In due course the study will be extended to examine the perspectives of other stakeholders.

Originality/value

Evidence from the literature suggests that obtaining and sustaining good quality WBL placements can be difficult. A reflection on potential “non standard” costs and benefits may assist organisations to weigh up these more ephemeral but potentially important factors and aid decision‐making about the viability and desirability of offering WBL placements and at the same time develop awareness of non‐standard costs and benefits amongst those seeking to set up placements for their students.

Citation

Morse, S.M. (2006), "Assessing the value: Work‐based learning placements for post‐graduate human resource development students?", Journal of European Industrial Training, Vol. 30 No. 9, pp. 735-755. https://doi.org/10.1108/03090590610715040