Case Studies
Student Employment as a Model for Experiential Learning
Audience: Supervisors
Summary
Evidence shows experiential learning fosters transferable skills, but some students can't participate due to work commitments. Study evaluated former student workers in a paid university position. Results indicate growth in skills, behaviors, and positive attitudes. University employment may promote skill development. Foster partnerships for mutual benefits.
More Information
Purpose: This evaluation assessed the outcomes and experiences of former student workers employed by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Outreach project in a paid, university position.
Methodology/Approach: Former workers were surveyed regarding grade point average and graduation, employment and post-graduate education, transferrable skill development, and civic behaviors and attitudes.
Findings/Conclusions: Former workers reported growth on transferrable skills (e.g., communication, problem-solving), civic behaviors, and attitudes and qualitatively attributed these gains to their work as outreach workers, particularly in terms of interacting with diverse clients in the community. Results suggest benefits associated with structuring meaningful experiences in university jobs similar to those observed in other experiential education settings.
Implications: University employment may be a viable route for promoting transferrable skill development. Greater consideration of employment opportunities that foster partnerships between the institution and the community may benefit the university, community, and students.