In today’s fast paced dynamic business world, characterized by the forces of globalization, technological innovation, and competition, employees need to quickly learn and adapt to the evolving needs of the industry or risk being left behind. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programs enable working professionals to gain industry relevant knowledge and skills while continuing to work and contribute to the growth of their organizations. ICONWIL-24 will bring a sharp focus on the extensive domain of Work Integrated Learning and offer a platform to share insights on diverse aspects that shape its landscape. With a focus on the workforce of the future, the conference brings together scholars, practitioners, and policymakers from across the globe who are actively engaged in the field of Work Integrated Learning to exchange research findings, ideas and share their experiences, as well as discuss solutions to practical challenges encountered in the field.

Theme: “Work Integrated Learning - Directions for the future”

1. Perspectives on Future Directions for Work Integrated Learning

• Strategies, Models and Approaches

• Policies and Institutional Support

• Curriculum Development

• Role of Technology

• Faculty Development

2. Pedagogical Practices

• Best Practices in Online Teaching-Learning

• Experiential Learning

• Flipped Classroom

• Active Learning

• Instructional Design

3. Assessment Models

• Assessments for Impact

• Strategies and Models

• Criteria and Rubrics Design

• Tools and Technologies for Assessment and Evaluation 

4. Innovation and Learning Technologies

• Advances in Teaching-Learning Technologies

• Impact of Generative AI

• Workplace Simulation Tools

• Learning Analytics

5. Industry-Academia Collaboration

• Collaboration Models

• Future-ready Competency Development

• Knowledge Exchange Platforms

• Internships and Immersions

• Funding and Financing Models

• Workplace Transformation

Perspectives on Future Directions for Work Integrated Learning  

Strategies, models and approaches aim to delve into innovative strategies for designing and delivering work integrated learning programmes. Policies and institutional support aims to discuss the crucial role that governing bodies and educational institutions play in fostering work integrated learning initiatives. Curriculum development focuses on emphasizing the need to adapt curriculum aligned with evolving industry requirements. Exploring the role of technology in the digital transformation of delivery and other functions of work integrated learning is of paramount importance. Faculty development highlights the importance of equipping educators with the knowledge and skills to facilitate successful work integrated learning programmes.

Pedagogical Practices 

The best practices in pedagogy from academia and industry when shared and adopted helps mature work integrated learning, as a domain. Experiential learning will explore into the dynamic realm of experiential learning, where students actively engage in real-world experiences, bridging the gap between theory and practice. The flipped classroom model will be explored, emphasizing the shift from traditional lectures to interactive, student centred learning, empowering learners to take ownership of their education. Active learning strategies will be a focal point, highlighting methods that foster student engagement and participation, promoting deeper understanding, retention and application of knowledge. Instructional design focuses on the effective course development and curriculum planning to ultimately enhance the educational experience for both students and educators.

Assessment Models

Assessment models in work integrated learning is a critical and timely topic in the field of education and professional development of the workforce. It underscores the significance of designing effective assessment strategies for students engaged in work integrated learning experiences. This track aims to explore various assessment models, methodologies, and best practices to bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world applications. This track will help gain insights into how to evaluate and measure students’ progress, competencies and skill development within the context of work integrated learning, ultimately enhancing the quality and impact of the learnings. Tools and technologies for assessment and evaluation will also be a key focus to explore.

Innovations and Learning Technologies

Innovations and learning technologies signify the dynamic exploration of the intersection between education and technology in the context of work integrated learning. This theme highlights the pivotal role that technological advancements play in reshaping the teaching-learning process and workforce development. It encourages discussion on how innovative learning technologies such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and online platforms are revolutionizing the way individuals acquire new skills and knowledge within their work environments. This track will explore cutting edge strategies for enhancing work integrated learning through digital tools and workplace simulations. This track also will explore how learning analytics can be applied leading to decisions for advancing work integrated learning programmes.

Industry-Academia Collaboration

Industry-Academia collaboration emphasizes the critical synergy between academic institutions and industry in fostering comprehensive education and professional development of the workforce. This track highlights the evolving landscape of education, where theoretical knowledge seamlessly integrates with real world industry practices leading to workplace transformation. It emphasizes the importance of educational institutions partnering with businesses to provide students with hands-on experiences, internships, immersions and cooperative programmes. Such collaborations not only enhance students’ practical skills but also addresses the ever-changing demands of the job market. Ultimately the conference aims to explore strategies, best practices and success stories that contribute to effective industry-academia partnerships, fostering a workforce better prepared to thrive in a dynamic and competitive global economy.