Section: Experiential Learning systems, processes and resources

Unisa differentiates between ‘work to earn’ as primary reason versus ‘work to learn’ where such work-experience represents a credit bearing part/s of the curriculum of the qualification. This section of the Directorate: Instructional Support & Services is internally responsible for the enabling systems, processes and resources; unfortunately not any direct support to students.  Please ask the lecturer/s of the module/s concerned or approach your nearest regional office^{(new window)} for assistance.

• When students register for compulsory modules, a pop-up(JPG)^{(new window)} appears containing a question with three answers to choose from. The data captured enables academic departments and regional centres to plan support.
• Unisa staff may NOT disclose any information of students to potential experiential learning providers. Unisa’s Data Privacy Policy emphasises the right of students to decide when, how and under which circumstances personal facts may be disclosed. From time to time companies approach Unisa with work-integrated/experiential learning opportunities. Currently registered students for WIL modules that would like to be considered for such opportunities are recommended to complete and submit a curriculum vitae form(DOC) to the office indicated on the form.
• Herewith some useful YouTube resources:
  • 10 TOP TIPS for first time job seekers (Source: www.innovatecv.com).^{(new window)}: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaOBtfVp8Lg.^{(new window)}

1. Make sure what is wanted — gather the facts
2. Identify own strengths and weaknesses — practice talking about strengths; selling self — what can contribute; prepare to talk about developmental areas
3. Consider transferable skills from past achievements — practice talking about these
4. Prepare a CV that stands out from the rest — sell self and what can bring to an organisation
5. Sign up with reputable recruitment agencies that would strive to get relevant jobs http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULfgy71L4vo&feature=relmfu.^{(new window)}
6. Network — tell everyone in personal network and who meet that looking
7. Diligently prepare for each interview — research the organisation and the interviewers
8. Consider each opportunity coming up
9. Be yourself — smile, relax, show what you can offer
10. Don’t give up — tenacity

• Basic how-to resume/CV writing making use of PC software — http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCpOLEX-PIM&feature=related^{(new window)}
• How to Write a Good Resume — http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLAhGJzhdzk&feature=related^{(new window)}
• Building Your Resume as a Student — http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_u4tcFA6SG4.^{(new window)}

American in nature, but worthwhile, because of the five key points:

1. Employers look for strong academic records
2. Demonstration of leadership skills important
3. Work experience very important
4. Experiential learning an important alternative
5. Demonstration of extra-curricular activities adds value

• Prospectingbasics.com ^{(new window)} is a database of opportunities, not a recruitment company or an agency. The database aims to help students who are in need of opportunities that are available from companies that offer among others internships, in-service training, experiential training and other opportunities beneficiary to students.
• Also make use of the Jobs and Opportunities Seekers’ Database (JOBS)^{(new window)} a free online database of the National Youth Development Agency (nyda)^{(new window)} for young people looking for job and training opportunities. Browse the nyda webpage for potential opportunities or consider visiting a nyda youth advisory centre.^{(new window)}