Research summary - Work-integrated learning in Canada

Official title: Work-Integrated Learning in Canada: Results from Wave 3 of the Longitudinal and International Study of Adults

Author of report: Joe Iacampo

Alternate formats

Work-integrated Learning in Canada: Alternate Formats [PDF - 242 KB]

Large print, braille, MP3 (audio), e-text and DAISY formats are available on demand by ordering online or calling 1 800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232). If you use a teletypewriter (TTY), call 1-800-926-9105.

Why this study

We took on this research to learn more about:

  • the characteristics of students taking part in work-integrated learning (WIL) programs
  • what types of supports are offered by schools to find jobs related to students' field of study, and
  • the benefits of WIL programs to students

What we did

We looked at post-secondary students who took part in WIL programs in Canada. The research used data from Wave 3 of the Longitudinal and International Study of Adults.

What we found

  • almost half (46%) of all students who took part in WIL were younger (aged 19 to 25)
  • more than half of students who took part in WIL were from Ontario (35%) and Quebec (21%)
  • one-quarter (25%) of the students who took part in WIL were from rural areas
  • 15% of all male students took part in WIL, compared to 10% of all female students
  • 12% of students whose family income was below $25,000 and 12% of students whose family income was between $50,000 and $100,000 took part in WIL (12%)
  • 11% of immigrant students took part in WIL programs, as did 10% of visible minority students
  • the most common supports that students received from their schools were:
    • help in finding an employer
    • writing a résumé, and
    • preparing for an interview
  • most students who took part in WIL benefited from the program, in terms of:
    • money (97%), or
    • knowledge and work experience (45%)
  • key factors to taking part in a WIL program included:
    • family income, and
    • support from schools
  • key factors for students working during their studies in a job related to their schooling included:
    • age
    • place of residence
    • family income, and
    • support from schools

What it means

The findings of this research will inform Learning Branch’s efforts to:

  • strengthen students’ training and skills development in post-secondary education, and
  • improve their abilities to successfully find a meaningful job after graduation

The findings from this project will help the federal government understand how to improve:

  • students' training and skills development in post-secondary studies, and
  • their chance of finding a meaningful job after graduation

Contact us

Learning Branch, Learning Policy and Services Directorate, Policy, Planning and Partnerships Division

Email: ESDC.NC.SSPB.RESEARCH-RECHERCHE.DGPSS.CN.EDSC@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

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