The influence of cooperative education and reflection upon previous work experiences on university graduates' vocational self-concept. Issue 2 (8th February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Drewery, David; Nevison, Colleen; Pretti, T Judene
• Is Part Of: Education + training. Volume 58:Issue 2(2016)
• Page Start: 179
• Page End: 192
• Publication Date: 2016-02-08
• Subjects: Reflection -- Cooperative education -- Vocational self-concept; Vocational education -- Periodicals; Occupational training -- Periodicals; Business and education -- Periodicals; 370.113
• DOI: 10.1108/ET-06-2015-0042
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-0912

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The purpose of this paper is to assess the relative effects of participation in cooperative education (co-op) and engagement in reflection upon previous work experiences on undergraduate students' vocational self-concept (VSC) at graduation. Design/methodology/approach: – A cross-sectional survey of graduating students ( n =1, 483) from a Canadian university was used. Regression models and a mediation analysis were used to test the influence of co-op on VSC through the mechanism of reflection. Findings: – Results suggest that both co-op and reflection on previous work experiences have direct effects on VSC, and that reflection partially mediates the relationship between degree type and VSC. Research limitations/implications: – This supports the role of work-integrated learning and self-reflection as critical determinants of students' work-related learning outcomes, and co-op as a potential container in which reflection may occur. Practical implications: – Students should be given opportunity to reflect on their work-related experiences in order to strengthen their VSC. Institutions may integrate practices related to reflection in order for their students to reap the benefits of deeper learning. Originality/value: – This study represents an inaugural view of the potential links between self-reflection and the development of students' VSC across both co-op and non-co-op degree types.