Module Code - Title:
CO4320
-
COOPERATIVE EDUCATION 1
Year Last Offered:
2023/4
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
PF
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
Most graduate employers look for high calibre personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate in a competitive marketplace. Increasingly, employers expect students to have some work experience by the time they graduate. Cooperative Education is a valuable opportunity for students to develop the range of demonstrable, professional and transferable skills consistently sought in the workplace.
On completion of their placement, students can recognise the skills and knowledge they have developed through their Coop experience. Moreover their placement enables them to identify gaps in their skills and knowledge and to plan ahead to bridge these gaps. Finally their placement Report provides a record of their work experience and skills as evidence for effective job applications and, where relevant, professional recognition.
Syllabus:
Prior to placement, students are required to complete an online assessment of their skills across a range of categories. On completion of their placement, students rate their skills again and are able to measure the impact of their Coop placement on their skills development. In addition, as part of the formal assessment of the Coop placement, employers and faculty are required to assess and measure studentsÆ learning outcomes through the faculty visit process, the Employer Evaluation Form and the Cooperative Education Report.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
Appreciate professional expectations concerning punctuality, appearance and attitude to work.
Apply academic learning to the world of work.
Recognise the importance of teamwork and individual contribution.
Apply creative thinking and problem solving skills in the work context.
Communicate effectively in verbal and written format.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
Adhere to the norms and expectations of the employing organisation.
Relate to colleagues at all levels
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
Use technology appropriate to the required tasks and procedures.
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
Traditional lectures and tutorials remain at the heart of the studentsÆ UL education. Cooperative Education allows students to apply their academic learning to a real life work situation. To ensure that students are adequately prepared for the world of work, they participate in a comprehensive preparatory programme beginning some eighteen months in advance of the placement. Topics covered include an overview of the placement programme; advice on CVs and interviews; introduction to learning outcomes; an overview of the Student Code of Practice and Visa application procedures. Speakers include the Cooperative Education Managers, participating Coop employers and previous Coop students.
During their placement, students receive both induction and on the job training, as well as regular feedback on their progress from their employer.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Chris Philips (1991)
First Interviews Sorted
, GTI
Martin Yate (2001)
Great Answers to Tough Interview Questions
, Kogan
Drew & Bingham (2005)
Student Skills Guide
, Ikon
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester - Year to be First Offered:
Spring
-
09/10
Module Leader:
Maria.Neville@ul.ie