Many of Brock\u2019s co-op education programs have received an extra stamp of approval.<\/p>\n
Thanks to a comprehensive application and review process, 27 of Brock\u2019s co-op programs are officially accredited by Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) Canada.<\/p>\n
By achieving and maintaining accreditation criteria, Brock aims to build quality into existing co-op programs and provide a benchmark for establishing new co-op programs.<\/p>\n
To qualify for accreditation, Brock\u2019s Co-op Education team documented the various specific criteria, including the programs\u2019 structure, delivery and evaluation, as well as the overall institutional commitment of the University.<\/p>\n
Julia Zhu, Brock\u2019s Associate Director of Co-op Education, said the certification helps show external audiences the strength of Brock\u2019s programs.<\/p>\n
\u201cPart of our vision is to be a leader in quality experiential education, and co-op is one of the most robust models of experiential learning,\u201d she said. \u201cThis accreditation demonstrates excellence and the commitment Brock has to be a leader both internally and to our partners across the country to continue improving the student experience.\u201d<\/p>\n
Having worked for more than a year to prepare the applications, Zhu said her team feels the recognition adds value to the efforts of the University\u2019s co-op students.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis recognition confirms we are developing talent that Canada and the world needs,\u201d she said. \u201cThis has been a great way to show accountability and commitment on the side of the University to position our students for success in their careers and personal lives.\u201d<\/p>\n
Cara Krezek, Director of Co-op, Career and Experiential Education, said the collaborative nature of the application process has also had an extra benefit.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe process of sharing our programs allows us to help others with theirs and to reflect on our own,\u201d she said. \u201cIt actually gave us some exciting new ideas.\u201d<\/p>\n
With the accreditation lasting six years, Zhu and her team are ready to work with additional departments to achieve the same recognition for their co-op programs.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know the value of all of our co-op programs here at Brock, and we want to work with our faculty and staff to ensure all programs have the chance to showcase that to external audiences through evaluation and certification,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n