Legal and Academic Issues of Higher Education Institutions in the Context of Work-based Learning: Latvian Case

摘要

The initial findings of the WBLQUAL Erasmus research project indicate that is accepted that a ‘culture gap’ and significant barriers exist between the worlds of academia and industry in a number of EU countries. These factors are most clearly expressed in the context of work-based learning, particularly when employees working in skilled jobs have a substantial base of knowledge and skills acquired through work experience and do not have a formal qualification (not necessary in relation to their employment) but aspire to have it. Employers also appear to require an educated workforce and have criticized higher education institutions for not adapting to their needs and being inflexible in their approach to work-based learning. The purpose of the research presented in the paper is to investigate and communicate some important aspects which can act as both a barrier to and an enabler of promotion of work-based learning in relation to higher education institutions. The findings are related to the specific situation of Latvia. The following main points are identified and examined in the research: a) the aspects of legislation that affect work-based learning, b) academic aspects in higher education institutions acting as barriers to and enablers of work- based learning from the point of view of three groups: senior management, faculty management, and practicing academics, and c) possible practical solutions for the facilitation of work-based learning. The main research methods used for research purposes are a study of legal acts regulating education in Latvia and their effect on work-based learning and conducting and analysing in-depth interviews with representatives of the three groups previously mentioned.