Crowne Plaza Hotel, Glasgow Welcome International Conference on Enhancement and Innovation in Higher Education Crowne Plaza Hotel, Glasgow 9-11 June 2015

Nuala Killeen Presentation Developing work placements for non-vocational social science programmes: the Community Links module at the University of Abertay Dundee

Outline Context and challenges The Community Links module Who benefits? Successes and limitations

Context and challenges The sceptics No ‘industry’ or vocation Theoretical orientation - what do we have to offer? Aligning critical thinking and the world of work The role of community

Community Links Optional 30 credit module at Level 10 Combines application of academic learning, transferable skills, job-seeking skills and work experience Application process 3 pieces of assessment: Learning outcomes; reflexive CV; Report

Benefits Students: work experience, application of knowledge, enhanced understanding, skills, challenges, employment Employers: educated and motivated volunteer; links to university University: Employability, research links, relationship to organisations and community Community: short-term help and long-term awareness and understanding

Limitations and Successes Precarious situation of voluntary sector – funding Lack of control over placements (and students) Successes Employment of students Positive experiences ‘Eureka moments’ – enhanced academic learning Mutually beneficial relations with community