Work Based Learning Research Centre
Welcome to the Work Based Learning Research Centre (WBLRC) Middlesex University
Aims
Our aim is to continue to promote research and scholarship as an internationally recognised centre of excellence dedicated to the use of work based learning and practice as a vehicle to support innovation and to achieve the development objectives of organizations and individuals.
Purpose
Middlesex University has had a key role in the development of Work Based Learning (WBL) in Higher Education in the Uk and internationally since 1993. The role of the Research Centre has been central to it's development.
This engages us fully in:
- building research capacity in the field of WBL,
- winning research funding both as a specialised unit and in collaborative partnerships,
- undertaking research, change and innovation consultancy with and in organisations in the UK and internationally,
- developing staff at the leading edge of thinking relevant to new knowledge synergies which emerge out of research into professional practice,
- contributing to the reputation and research ranking of the University through the operation of WBLRC on a pan-university basis,
- promoting the scholarly dissemination of research arising from and relevant to the work of the IWBL, the Research Centre and Higher Education.
Our Research Centre also makes significant contributions to research and development of work based learning and professional studies in higher education and in professional organisations through seeking to understand:
- the relationships between work practices and learning within organisations,
- how practice-based learning can be recognised in higher education,
- how the development of policy and provision in the field can be supported,
- how these activities can inform change and innovation in organisations through the development of all the human resources available in any organisation.
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Research activities focus on: - the dynamics and processes of organisational and professional change, accreditation and assessment in higher education,
- virtual learning environments that support effective WBL,
- methodologies appropriate for worker-practitioner -researchers,
- developing and enhancing ethical practice and understanding,
- work-based projects as part of professional learning,
- critical reflection and reflexivity,
- the role of academic and professional advising, coaching and mentoring,
- trans-disciplinary interfacing in change management and innovation,
- integration of practice and theory, academics and professional practice.
Our research candidates undertake a Professional Practice Doctorate award, the Doctorate in Professional Studies (Proof) with the main field of the candidate being added to the title. A Masters level can also be undertaken. Candidates come from a wide variety of professional backgrounds, are usually in their mid to late careers and wish to develop themselves and their organisations, communities or professional areas.
