Ahead of undertaking some sizable WBL evaluation I wanted to cross check my own evakuation design with the HEA Work-Based learning Impact study. In doing this I have jotted ouut the key elements of this report for future reference.
Reasons to engage in WBL
| Learners | Employers |
| Validate and formalise experience | Develop knowledge, skills ad expertise (job specific and generic) |
| Career progression | Retention |
| Increased knowledge and understanding | Supplement and extend existing provision |
| Develop practical skills to perform better in new or future role |
Reasons for programme choice
| Learners | Employers |
| Flexible delivery | Fits in to work schedule |
| Cost | |
| Pace | Opportunity to influence change in the work-place |
| Convenience of delivery in the workplace | Minimum time away from work |
| Relevance | Addresses day to day issues |
Impact
| Learners | Employers |
| Confidence at work | Clearer organisational direction |
| Confidence outside of work | Development of standards, policies and contracts |
| Higher aspirations and motivation | Improvements in quality |
| Raised personal status | Increased innovation |
| More self aware learning to think and challenge assumptions | Improved performance of employees who require less direct support |
| A greater awareness of particular issues | Positive attitudinal and behavioural change in line with the values of the organisation (capability expanding) |
| Developed new and enhanced existing skills | External recognition and prestige |
| More likely to take stock of performance | |
| Wider perspective of workplace issues | |
| Better understanding of the workplace organisation |
Key professional benefits of WBL
- Better performance
- Taking on responsibility
- Changed jobs or secured promotion
- Secured salary increase
- Left able to see other points of view
- Positive workplace thinking
- Relieved stress and increased contentment
- Able to coach others
- Professional recognition or membership
NB: Reflective approaches were cited as critical for realising benefits at work.
Bite size acknowledged as a catalyst for further study.
Lydia Arnold 
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