A Descriptive Analysis of the Role Played by Coordinators of Work-based Learning Activities in Aviation Management Programs

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to discuss Work-based Learning (WBL) from the perspective of those organizations that engage in either cooperative education (Co-op) or internships. More specifically this study analyzes a specific set of coordination activities conducted by department/faculty coordinators in Aviation Management (AVM) programs. Work-based Learning comprises a variety of experiential learning activities and, for the purpose of this study; it is limited to Co-op and internship. Much of the existing literature discusses WBL from the perspective of either the institutional participant or the student participant. Additionally, although WBL has been credited with enabling the successful transition from the world of academia to the workforce the coordination of these programs is not consistent among the institutions participating in WBL. Accordingly, this study asked 10 “Yes” or “No” questions to solicit data on the nature and scope of work conducted on the part of department/faculty coordinators.