Barriers to effective learning by university students on work related learning: A case study of Gweru urban area in the Midlands Province of Zimbabwe

Magwa Simuforosa,Makuvaro Veronica,Ngara Rosemary

doi:10.24297/jssr.v7i1.6635

Abstract

Work Related Learning (WRL) provides a platform for students to link theory and practice. Universities in Zimbabwe have WRL as part of their curricula and whilst some universities refer this programme to as "student attachment", others have adopted the term WRL. The period of student placement at work places may differ among universities. There has however, been a general move from short term periods to longer periods of attachment. When effectively carried out, WRL can benefit students, academic staff / institutions as well as the employer. The aim of this study was to identify barriers to effective learning of students on WRL. A case study was conducted with students on WRL in Gweru urban area. A questionnaire was administered to 50 students who were at 15 different workplaces during the period May-June 2014. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with a total of eight co-ordinators of the WRL programmesat the Midlands State University in Gweru and supervisors at 12 randomly selected workplaces where students were seconded for the WRL programme. Problems encountered by students on WRL include delays in securing places for attachment, lack of financial incentives to meet basic requirements and limited access to Information Technology and Communication. The study recommends that Universities revisit their WRL programmes to address existing conditions, particularly those of large student numbers and a dwindling industrial base. Policies which permit effective placement and learning of students on WRL at both private and public work-places should also be put in place.

Highlights

Work Related Learning (WRL) is a term that has been adopted by many educational institutions such as universities to refer to the type of learning whereby students spend part of their academic life seconded to some workplaces to gain work experience
The organizations to which they were seconded for the WRL programme included seven government institutions, four parastatal organizations, three private institutions and one non-governmental organization (NGO)
The study established major constraints faced by students on WRL in Gweru Urban area

Summary

Introduction

Work Related Learning (WRL) is a term that has been adopted by many educational institutions such as universities to refer to the type of learning whereby students spend part of their academic life seconded to some workplaces to gain work experience. WRL programmes are part of university curricula at most if not all universities in Zimbabwe and students are expected to be seconded to prospective workplaces for varying periods of time ranging from several months to as long as a full year. WRL programmes can be beneficial to the students, academic institutions and the employer ([1],[2],[3]) when effectively implemented. WRL provides a source of employable graduates[3] for the employer and as highlighted [8], employers tend to recruit those students who have a working background. Organized WRL programmes enhance effective linkages / partnerships between universities and various orgainizations / industries as platforms for collaboration are created [2]

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Conclusion