At the higher levels of education, too, there has been more emphasis on work-based learning, which links academic study closely to practical experience. At degree level, companies have linked with universities to create specialised qualifications, such as the BA in Distribution run between Middlesex University and Asda Supermarket. Such partnerships also exist at Masters and even doctorate level.
Technological advances have supported the growth of work-based learning. With blended learning, part of the course is online, allowing people to study without missing work. Older or retired employees can now act as tutors, mentors, or coaches in these programs. This training was common in fields such as nursing and teaching, but has now spread to careers which were traditionally not closely linked to education.
(Adapted from Mindset for Ielts 1)