Enablers of Student's Satisfaction with Work Placement Learning Towards School to Work Transition: A Case of Nigeria
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Purpose: Work placement learning (WPL) has become essential to technical vocational education and training (TVET). Successful WPL helps students integrate theoretical knowledge with practical experiences, facilitating a smooth transition from school to work. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors that may promote TVET students' satisfaction with WPL. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study utilised a qualitative design, employing interviews and focus groups to gather information from 23 final-year undergraduate TVET students who had completed a six-month WPL program. The goal was to understand the factors contributing to student's satisfaction with the overall work placement program and how it can enhance confidence for a seamless school-to-work transition upon graduation. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to factors influencing students' satisfaction with WPL in preparation for the transition to the workforce. Research Limitation: The study's qualitative, open-ended surveys provide valuable insights; unfortunately, there are no quantitative indicators to determine general trends. A mixed-methods strategy that combines qualitative and quantitative analysis will be most effective in succeeding research. Findings: The thematic analysis revealed four main themes based on the research questions: positive WPL experiences, institutional support, acquisition of new skills for the future, and a favourable work environment. Practical Implication: These findings have practical implications for universities and WPL host establishments. The results suggest that higher education institutions and industries should improve students' satisfaction with WPL to help them recognise their competencies before entering the workforce. Social Implication: The practical experience gained through the WPL program can provide students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, opportunities to improve their socio-economic status. Originality/Value: This paper provides a comprehensive examination of WPL satisfaction with the school-to-work transition, offering insights for industries, WPL providers, educational institutions, and students seeking work placements.
Authors: C. T. Orji, J. Perumal
Institution: University of the Witwatersrand
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4410050265