It is important that trainees really integrate into the work environment during the practicum if they are to benefit fully from the work-study approach. For example:

-     Trainees need contact with other employees to benefit from their expertise.

-    Trainees need an opportunity to learn more about the trade or technology through direct contact with the normal work process.

      Employee support

To create the best possible learning atmosphere and promote employee support and cooperation,employees must understand the work-study project, its purpose and the importance of the company’s role in training students. Integration of trainees will be easier if employees are informed of the trainees’ status and of certain conditions of the agreement between the company and the school, the following in particular:

- Trainee placements must not entail replacement or dismissal of employees.

- Trainees have not completed their education and must return to school after the practicum.

- Trainees are still students and their stage of learning must be respected.

Employees affected by the work-study project can be involved in certain key stages of the traineeplacement process—in helping to determine and validate the content of the Training Plan, for example, or in determining who will be the trainee’s supervisor.

      Union support

In unionized shops, union support is crucial for the success of the practicum. Though collective agreements must always be considered and respected in placing trainees, it may be possible to reach an agreement with the union if provisions of the collective agreement prohibit or interfere with trainee placements.