Industry Perception on the Implementation of Work-Based Learning (WBL) in Politeknik Ibrahim Sultan

Abstract

Work-Based Learning (WBL) is a type of learning that integrates theoretical and practical learning in the context of real-life situations. In September 2013, Politeknik Ibrahim Sultan became one of Malaysia's first public higher learning institutions to use the Work-Based Learning technique in both teaching and learning in the tourism and hospitality management discipline at the undergraduate level. The objective of this study is to evaluate the feedback and perception of industry on the implementation of WBL. This study uses a mixed method of qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data collection was based on the students’ performance appraisal form, semi-structured interviews during lecturer visits and meetings between polytechnic management and the companies involved. The main informants are companies who have gone through the WBL procedure. The data was analysed by employing a matrix of categories and categorising the evidence. There are five indicators for this study, which are the competencies of students, student discipline, competencies of industrial supervisors, communication between institution and industry, and the effectiveness of the WBL as a teaching and learning approach. According to the findings, the Work-based Learning technique is incredibly efficient in supporting students in enhancing their skills and knowledge while also raising their chances of finding work. However, the study identifies a number of concerns and obstacles that must be addressed, including information coordination, continuous cooperation, and the lack of teaching and learning competency among industrial supervisors. The study shows that supervisors should be academically prepared and have a thorough awareness of their role in implementing WBL. Besides, in future, it will be important for PIS to conduct a study to evaluate the feedback from industry at the end of the WBL session. This is to enable corrective action to be taken as soon as possible for improvement for the next WBL session.