Work-integrated-learning in International Business: Exploring Stakeholder Value for Regional Export Companies

Experiential learning approaches such as work-integrated learning (WIL) are an important international business (IB) educational tool yet can be challenging to implement. This exploratory research examines the value derived by regional Australian export companies from engagement with such programmes. The results suggest that firms perceive considerable benefit from involvement, particularly access to international market research capabilities. Additional benefits such as new market perspectives and extended local and international networks were reported. However, potential recruitment and reputational benefits received limited focus from the participants. The research therefore helps inform IB educators, potentially leading to the development of more accessible, effective and sustainable WIL programmes based upon a better understanding of the value of these programmes to this key stakeholder group.