Implementing work-based learning within masters' courses in design: A research evaluation of curriculum

This article has been developed from an internally funded educational research project undertaken to address the needs of a specific institution, namely Southampton Institute. However, the key issues described, which include learning contracts, information and communications technologies (ICT), accreditation of prior experiential learning (AP[E]L) and placement schemes, have relevance to other higher education institutions (HEIs) associated with introducing work-based learning (WBL) within the design curriculum at postgraduate level. The article includes a review of recent government documents, reports, websites and conference papers. The article not only locates the importance of design as a key player within the creative industries but also suggests how the postgraduate design curriculum can provide a viable opportunity for developing important employability skills. Finally, the article discusses the background to, and definitions of, workbased learning, and concludes with an analysis of some the challenges and benefits involved with developing an effective and alternative mode of learning.