Work Integrated Learning Open Module Initiative

This comprehensive set of 31 open access, learner-centered modules supports WIL preparedness among post-secondary students.

Work Integrated Learning (WIL) has become a core element of post-secondary instruction and a crucial means by which applied and experiential learning is infused into curriculum in highly meaningful and professionally relevant ways.

These modules are grounded in The Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario’s (HEQCO) A Practical Guide for Work Integrated Learning and represent over 35 hours of rich content that can be used by faculty, career-services staff, and employers to support student learning in applied and work-integrated settings.  The modules, licensed under the Creative Commons (CC BY NC 4.0), may be packaged together to create an online course, substantial units of a course, or to supplement WIL experiences within other courses.

Project Partners

The WIL Open Module Initiative is the result of a collaboration between Niagara College, Georgian College, Algonquin College, and Lambton College.  Module production was completed by kylemackie.ca.

Project Funding

Funding for the development of the WIL Open Modules was provided by the province of Ontario, via eCampusOntario.

Modules

Work Integrated Learning: The Fundamentals

(3 Discrete Modules)

The suite of Work Integrated Learning – The Fundamentals modules familiarizes learners with common characteristics and formats of WIL and introduces them to the benefits and challenges frequently associated with WIL experiences.  Principles of reflective practice are introduced as a tool to support learning throughout WIL placements.

Access WIL: The Fundamentals Modules
Job Search Skills

(5 Discrete Modules)

The suite of Job Search Skills modules supports learners in identifying their WIL requirements and finding relevant opportunities in their field.  Key employability and networking skills are introduced and are applied to the development of effective resumes, references, and cover letters.

Access Job Search Skills Modules
Interview Skills

(5 Discrete Modules)

The suite of Interview Skills modules supports learners in preparing for a professional interview, from tips for creating a good first impression to strategies for asking thoughtful questions of the interview panel.  The content and activities familiarize participants with a range of common interview formats, structures, and questions.

Access Interview Skills Modules
Interpersonal Expectations and Competencies

(5 Discrete Modules)

The suite of Interpersonal Expectations and Competencies modules introduces learners to concepts and approaches that will enable them to work effectively with others in their WIL experiences.  Module content and activities focus on teamwork, interpersonal communication, intercultural communication, conflict resolution, and project management.

Access Interpersonal Expectations and Skills Modules
Research and Business Communication Skills

(4 Discrete Modules)

The suite of Research and Business Communication Skills modules supports learners in building the practical skills necessary to communicate effectively in the workplace.  Content and activities help learners to select appropriate research strategies and prepare effective business communications, including writing emails, memos, and presentations.

Access Research and Business Communications Skills Modules
Your Professional Future

(4 Discrete Modules)

The suite of Your Professional Future modules assists learners in developing a professional profile and brand, assessing their employability skills, and translating these skills into future employment. Learners are also supported in identifying employment options in their fields in addition to opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.

Access Your Professional Future Modules

License

Creative Commons logo

All modules created for the Work Integrated Learning Open Module Initiative by Niagara College, Georgian College, Lambton College and Algonquin College are licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.

Accessibility Features

All modules created for the WIL Open Module Initiative include the following accessibility features:

  • Audio/video content is delivered via a media player that is compatible with assistive technology
  • Full transcripts and synchronized closed captioning of all audio content
  • Keyboard navigable multimedia
  • Downloadable forms and worksheets
  • Web browser and mobile device-friendly functionality
  • URLs (e.g. website or email addresses) are rendered as active hyperlinks in a manner that allows them to be detected and activated with assistive technology
  • Alternative text for all non-decorative images
  • All instructions, prompts, and error messages necessary to complete forms are conveyed as text to assistive technology

Technical Specifications

The modules created for this project include engaging media (video, audio, graphics and animations) and interactive exercises.

  • Module content is authored in Articulate Storyline 360. Source files are editable in Storyline 360 and Storyline 3.
  • Modules are published to industry recommendations and optimized for standard delivery – video quality 5, audio bitrate 48kbps, image quality 80%.
  • Modules are published as SCORM 1.2 packages for LMS and/or web distribution, with HTML5 output and Flash backup.
  • When learners access the modules, content will be delivered based on the device and browser they are using.
  • Learner activity/progress is tracked via number of slides viewed.
  • Learner status can be configured to report to LMS as “Complete/Incomplete" Completion is based on the user viewing all slides in the presentation.

Contact the Authors

If you make use of or have questions or feedback related to any Work Integrated Learning Open Module Initiative content, we would love to hear from you. Please contact:

Dr. Natasha Hannon
Manager of Educational Development
Niagara College Canada

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