Learning through work experience for the knowledge economy 
Issues for educational research and policy

2004, 136 pp.
Cedefop Reference series; 48
Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities
Charge: EUR 25
 

This book identifies the achievements and limitations of successive European policy reforms and addressees future challenges in relation to work experience. It describes a new analytical tool - a typology for conceptualising different models of work experience in terms of learning, rather than the traditional approach of treating work experience as a social institution.
    The book argues that, if work experience is to contribute to preparing individuals for the future, this can only happen if a shift takes place from viewing the primary purpose of work experience as a form of socialisation to that of connecting different modes of learning. It introduces and explains the meaning of the term 'connectivity', which lies at the heart of a new model of learning through work experience for the knowledge economy. (Quoted from: NCWE www.work-experience.org)

The document consists of six parts: 

(1) Overview - rethinking the relation between work experience and learning; 
(2) Work experience: policy and practice in Europe; 
(3) The relationship between knowledge, work, generic skill and employability; 
(4) Theories of connective practices of learning through work experience; 
(5) Modelling work experience and learning: illustrations from European practice;
(6) Conclusions: issues for research, policy and practice.

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