Work Integrated Learning (WIL)

Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) is “learning by doing” and this type of applied learning happens in a variety of ways. WIL can be within individual courses or as part of a larger program structure. For example, students in our Business, Computer Science, Bioinformatics, and Biology programs have the option of alternating academic terms with paid work terms. In the new Strategic Plan, Langara College would like every student to have the opportunity to participate in some type of WIL during their time at Langara. Through our research, we found that many students are not aware of how to find these opportunities. We aim to provide students with more opportunities to learn about WIL.

Since 1982, Langara has provided Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities that enhance academic experiences and offer a head start on career exploration. Experiential education opportunities are available for all students at Langara, from first-year to graduation, through program-integrated co-ops, internships, and practicums, as well as short-term service-learning trips and volunteer experiences. Langara has engaged partnerships with employers and organizations committed to students’ progression and success in their careers. Whether it sparks an entrepreneurial passion, enhances employability, or inspires lifelong learning, WIL is an integrated learning path that provides students with various directions to pursue their passions and interests while achieving their academic goals.

I spent a lot of my time at BC Children's Hospital getting to know the nurses and seeing the impact they had on my friend throughout his life. That's what initially inspired me to pursue nursing."
Natasha Thanasiriwatthana
Canada
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Showing vulnerability by asking questions and being curious is the best advice I can offer to any student. Be like a curious little cat and keep learning!
Jaisveen Kaur
India
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Examples of WIL at Langara include: 

  • Working on a CityStudio Vancouver applied project plan idea within a Geography course
  • Paid full-time Co-op work terms, applying classroom theory in a workplace
  • Completing one of eleven required clinical practicums within the Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Finishing a Post-Degree Diploma program with a one term paid work experience immediately prior to graduation
  • Participating in one of many Field Schools which combines classroom study with in-field or in-country experience
  • Contributing skills and interest in Applied Research with campus research initiatives and projects

Getting involved in WIL as a student. 

Several programs provide students with opportunities to gain knowledge, experience, and confidence, including:

Wavemakers (Canadian students only) is a free, part-time, career-building program for post-secondary students from all disciplines and years of study. Wavemakers takes place in a cutting-edge virtual reality campus (no VR headset required) – allowing you to join from anywhere! 

Lime Connect is "rebranding disability through achievement" by providing support and networking opportunities for students and graduates with visible and invisible disabilities. Open to Canadians and Americans, there are various events, workshops, scholarships, coaching opportunities, and networking options available for participation. Join for free as a student. 

Co-operative Education (Co-op) allows you to alternate study semesters with paid work terms, so that you can develop the skills needed to be successful in your future career. Join an upcoming Co-op Info Session to learn more. 

Federal Internship Program for Canadians with Disabilities (FIPCD) – Did you know that the federal government is an employer of choice? Are you looking for new job opportunities and have recently graduated or will be graduating soon? The Public Service Commission (PSC) is launching Cohort 5 of the Federal Internship Program for Canadians with Disabilities (FIPCD). 

This national program aims to increase the economic inclusion of persons with disabilities by developing key skills for future employment. It also seeks to increase public service representation and retention of persons with disabilities. The internships offered are entry-level and developmental, requiring little to no previous job experience, 18 months in duration at a minimum, and are located in cities across the country.

Opportunities as a Langara graduate. 

Many community organizations offer resources and programs for graduates, including: 

Lime Connect is "rebranding disability through achievement" by providing support and networking opportunities for students and graduates with visible and invisible disabilities. Open to Canadians and Americans, there are various events, workshops, scholarships, coaching opportunities, and networking options available for participation. 

The Neil Squire Creative Employment Options program supports people with a disability to help prepare them to achieve their employment goals. Contact info [at] neilsquire.ca (info[at]neilsquire[dot]ca) to book an appointment and determine if you qualify and if this is the next best step for you. 

AccessibleEmployers.ca, a Presidents Group initiative, is a community where you can learn more about companies that actively support inclusive workplaces, access resources, and review individual success stories. The Presidents Group is a network of 25 change-driven BC business leaders who are champions for more accessible, inclusive workplaces. 

The Work-Able Graduate Internship Program coordinates paid internships across the BC Public Service for recent post-secondary graduates self-identifying as having a disability. If you have any questions about the internship program, contact Work.Able [at] gov.bc.ca (Work[dot]Able[at]gov[dot]bc[dot]ca).

What has been happening to support students with disabilities to participate in WIL? 

  • Proposed to pilot a part-time WIL Abilities Coordinator position at Langara College to support the project. The WIL Abilities Coordinator is from the Co-op & Career Development Centre and brings years of experience with co-operative education and other forms of “learning by doing” at Langara and beyond.
  • Completed one-on-one and survey-based research. Information sessions are being held to discuss the findings.
  • Actively searching for inclusive employers and flagging them in our system for easy identification.
  • Gathering supporting information to share with students, especially unique opportunities to expand experiences and new ways of learning.
  • Outreach with organizations in this space to create joint workshops.