The Contribution of Work-Integrated Learning to Nutrition Undergraduate Employability Skill Development

Hannah Ferguson; Michelle Ho; Tanya Lawlis

doi:10.21153/jtlge2024vol15no1art1812

Authors

Hannah Ferguson Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia https://orcid.org/0009-0006-1339-6819
Michelle Ho https://orcid.org/0009-0009-0288-9054
Tanya Lawlis University of Canberra https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3744-3182

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21153/jtlge2024vol15no1art1812

Keywords:

Work-integrated learning, employability, skills, undergraduate, nutrition

Abstract

The field of nutrition has seen a growing interest and demand in recent years, with more students choosing to study within the field. This demand has highlighted the importance of producing work-ready graduates with skills that enhance their employability and ability to contribute effectively to the workforce. This study investigated the role of work-integrated learning (WIL) on improving employability skills in nutrition undergraduates (n=41) at an Australian university. Perceived skill development was determined using the Employability Skills Cluster Matrix-Self Assessment Tool (ESCM-SAT). Significant improvements were observed across all 24 employability skills post-internship, with the greatest increase in the communication cluster and ‘developing and managing my career’ (p<0.01). Skill development was attributed to self-awareness, exposure to a professional environment, and mentorship. Undergraduate nutrition degrees should consider strategies to develop transferable skills and include WIL for the unique application of academic knowledge to diverse workplace settings within the industry.

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Author Biographies

Hannah Ferguson, Discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia

Hannah Ferguson graduated as an Accredited Practising Dietitian from the University of Canberra in 2022. She works as a clinical dietitian, providing nutrition support and education to people within the acute hospital setting. She is an Accredited Practicing and member of Dietitians Australia.
Michelle Ho

Michelle Ho graduated as an Accredited Practising Dietitian from the University of Canberra in 2022. She has since been working in various community settings, focusing on residential aged care facilities and private home visits. She is an Accredited Practising and member of Dietitians Australia.
Tanya Lawlis, University of Canberra

Associate Professor Lawlis is the Faculty of Health Associate Dean (Education and Strategy), University of Canberra. She has convened the non-clinical health WIL unit for four years. Tanya has a PhD in interprofessional education, with her scholarship and research focusing on employability skill development and improving WIL for students with a disability. Tanya is a Registered Nutritionist with Nutrition Society of Australia, UC Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Fellow and an ACEN NSW/ACT chapter committee member.

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