CMU shaping what quality work-integrated learning looks like in Canada
Canadian Mennonite University (CMU) has been selected as one of the top institutions in Canada to develop a national quality work-integrated learning (QWIL) certification.
In collaboration with 12 other institutions, this venture operates through Canada's leading organization in the field, Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL).
CMU is the only university from the prairie provinces to be selected for this project.
"CMU will be working with colleagues across the country and the social impact research advocacy firm SISCO to review and provide feedback on the framework, process, and potential value of what constitutes quality work-integrated learning (WIL) for our students in our context," says Christine Kampen Robinson, Director of the Centre for Career and Vocation at CMU.
"CMU practicum staff will be building appropriate documentation for each domain of the certification process, and we will be among the first institutions to have the opportunity to apply for certification in Canada," she says.
CMU already has over 20 years of history in WIL, coordinating with more than 500 distinct organizations to host students for their placements. CMU is also the only school in Canada that includes a WIL requirement for all undergraduate students. The structure of the university's program already aligns with CEWIL's standards and definitions of WIL and internships; both institutions prioritize compatibility and developmental learning.
"CMU has been invited to be part of a select group of institutions, including the University of Toronto and other top Canadian schools. Together we will set benchmarks and best practices for work-integrated learning in Canada. This invitation is recognition of CMU's uniquely strong commitment to work-integrated learning among Canadian schools," says Jonathan Dueck, Vice-President Academic at CMU.
"CMU's Practicum means that every student has real-world experience, out there 'in the wild,' with the practical exercise of service, leadership, conflict resolution, communication, ethical reflection, and the many other skills that CMU's liberal arts-and-sciences curriculum builds," he says.
CEWIL and CMU aim to foster high-quality WIL experiences that are meaningful and influential for students and their host organizations. CMU looks forward to the partnership as it helps establish the national QWIL certification.
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