Work Integrated Learning: Preparing Future Planners for Real-World Challenges

Abstract

This study explores Work Integrated Learning (WIL) as a means to cultivate applied wisdom, or phronesis, among future urban planners. By blending theoretical knowledge with practical experience, this approach aims to bridge the gap between academia and practice, preparing students to address the multifaceted challenges of informal settlement upgrading. The study underscores the importance of experiential learning in nurturing well-rounded professionals. Through WIL, students engage in real-world urban planning scenarios, gaining insights into societal rationality and enhancing their practical skills. A case study spanning from 2018 to 2023 illustrates WIL in a Strategic and Participatory Planning module. Students applied planning theory in real-world scenarios, employing participatory methods to gather community data, reflecting on theory-practice connections, and presenting their findings to the local municipality. The module received positive feedback from students, highlighting the value of practical experience in reinforcing theoretical understanding. By integrating WIL into urban planning education, this research contributes to the discourse on educational trajectories in the field. It emphasises the importance of preparing future urban planners to navigate the complexities of contemporary urban environments with wisdom and efficacy. Ultimately, by fostering collaboration between academia and practice, WIL equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to address the pressing challenges of informal settlements.