Learn while you earn: Harnessing the career development value of paid work for higher education students

Lauren Hansen; Sharon La Fontaine

doi:10.21153/jtlge2026vol17no1art2195

Authors

Lauren Hansen Deakin University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9828-351X
Sharon La Fontaine Deakin University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9948-074X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21153/jtlge2026vol17no1art2195

Abstract

This conceptual paper introduces the ‘Stepping Stone’ concept, an evidence-based and practitioner-led approach to embedded career education implemented at a large Australian metropolitan university. In response to growing policy and market pressures on higher education providers to support graduate employability, the approach acknowledges the increasing diversity of the student population and the need for personalised, flexible and contextually embedded career development interventions. Grounded in career development theory and practice wisdom, the concept takes a ‘just-in-time’ approach by enabling students to leverage their current paid work into more career-relevant work while they study. Embedded within a scaffolded, course-wide program, the Stepping Stone concept supports students’ transitions into the workforce by aligning career education with their individual goals and circumstances. The paper highlights the value of collaboration across the higher education workforce to design and support relevant, timely and industry-engaged career development interventions and calls for broader recognition of practice wisdom in higher education policy and strategy.

Author Biographies

Lauren Hansen, Deakin University

Director, Graduate Employability

Office of the PVC Graduate Employment
Sharon La Fontaine, Deakin University

Associate Professor of Biomedical Sciences and Career Education

Office of the PVC-Graduate Employment and School of Life & Environmental Sciences

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