Work-Based Learning: Injection or Infection?

Abstract

This paper considers the role that universities can play in supporting lifelong learning by the adaptation of teaching methods to provide in-company education directed at specific roles and tasks. It considers the ways work-based learning (WBL) as a teaching methodology can inject new theories, concepts and models directly into industry. It balances the positive benefits of WBL with a critical appraisal of its drawbacks, particularly with respect to the threat of relaxation of academic standards and the dangers of gradual infection of academic integrity across all delivery methods. It looks at the opportunities for WBL in the Slovak Republic and concludes that on balance the new teaching technology is sound, but it urges caution in the approach to WBL and for the establishment of systems to ensure academic standards are maintained.