An innovative multidisciplinary model for work placement assessment

Assessment methods and practices have been identified as a key issue in the delivery of work-integrated learning programs worldwide. Maintaining academic standards, ensuring the relevance and consistency of assessment processes and determining responsibility for assessment are some commonly raised problems. This paper presents a case study of an innovative assessment model developed for application in multidisciplinary workplace settings, which attempts to address some of these issues. The case study is based on an optional 6 or 12 month paid WIL program, available to undergraduate students. The paper discusses the strategy adopted to formulate the model. The assessment tool was trialed in 2010, with positive outcomes reported by academic supervisors from its first application. Key Improvements included an increase in the quality of student reports and greater evidence of graduate attribute development being documented by students. The project outcomes may be useful for other practitioners addressing assessment practices in WIL.