The value of work experience in higher education : a study of work experience as a substitute for formal academic entrance requirements

• The Swedish policy that work experience can be used as a substitute for formal academic entrance requirements for higher education is assessed. The social and economic background of introducing work experience in higher education policy is described, and the significance of work experience to enrollment patterns and for the form and content of higher education is addressed. The general characteristics of the Swedish admissions system and the effects on recruitment and admissions are outlined. Additionally, the effects of work experience on the educational process are considered from a theoretical viewpoint. Distinctions are made between three different functions of work experience as a ground for admission: work experience as a substitute for upper secondary school education (alternative route) for adults; additional credit in selection for all students; and formal requirement for admission to some study programs. Work experience also is classified as a basis for academic studies according to its content (relevant professional experience, work experience, in general, and life experience). The admissions schemes in Sweden and Denmark are compared, and those found in a few other countries are briefly noted. Some Swedish findings regarding different ways of valuing work experience as an admission criterion are summarized. It is suggested that institutions that are mainly oriented toward traditional groups do not have the same possibilities of using experience as do institutions with an educational design oriented toward nontraditional students. A bibliography is appended

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Produktionsteknik, arbetsvetenskap och ergonomi (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Production Engineering, Human Work Science and Ergonomics (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Industrial Work Environment

Industriell produktionsmiljö

Publication and Content Type

vet (subject category)

rap (subject category)