What is professional practice?
Professional practice, also known as placements, clinics or practicals, gives students the opportunity to apply and extend their knowledge and skills in a practical, face-to-face environment. Unlike work-integrated learning (WIL) or work experience, professional practice is a compulsory component of a student’s course, usually undertaken as part of a unit requirement.
For example, occupational therapy or physiotherapy students are required, as part of their degree, to train under supervision in hospitals or clinics, gaining the experience and skills needed in a real-world setting.
Similarly, education students must undertake professional practice in schools, where they are mentored by experienced teachers and guided in teaching methods and behaviour management strategies.
As a current Curtin student, your course coordinator or relevant teaching administration will provide you with further information about professional practice. Education students can find more information on the Professional Education Experience webpage as well.