Cooperative Education / Work Integrated Learning

Cooperative Education is work integrated learning, in which the time spent in the workplace forms an integrated part of an academic program of study.

That is educational institute and employers cooperate to provide best education for the student, hence the name Cooperative Education. However this term can be confusing as other education is "cooperative" hence the more modern term, Work Integrated Learning.

Cooperative education takes many forms in New Zealand. However broadly speaking it falls into two general categories. One category is vocational training, for example apprenticeships, where the student works in their trade, while undertaking formal training at a training institute, typically a polytechnic, Industry Training Organisation or Private Training Enterprise. The other category is where a tertiary student as part of their degree goes out into the relevant workplace, typically over summer break, and documents this experience. The student is assigned a grade for their work and/or report, which forms an essential part of their degree.

The benefits to are significant and numerous to all parties. In a nutshell the students receive practical, hands on experience and a monetary reward. Employers receive enthusiastic and innovate labor coupled with the ability to screen potential permanent staff. Academic institutions benefit from the closer interaction with industry.

Further information on cooperative education can be found, in the categories to your right, underneath of the "cooperative Education / Work Integrated learning categories. Each section, of student, Employers and Educational Institutes has in depth case studies and information on the positive outcomes of cooperative education for that group.