The Rural Roots program allowed students to gain much-needed experience to transition into their future careers and for employers to boost their capacity while generating projects that have tangible results. Through meaningful engagement in our program, we aimed to raise awareness of the benefits of working, living in, and supporting rural communities.
What is Work-integrated Learning, Rural Roots
Understanding that the landscape of work-integrated learning (WIL) is changing, students or employers have access to a variety of opportunities that suit their needs. From applied research projects to apprenticeships or micro-placements to hackathons, the possibilities are endless.
The core purpose of WIL was to provide value to students (e.g., employability, and personal development) and employers (e.g., access to new talent, new ideas, and the opportunity to grow and diversify their workforce), specifically for those in rural communities.
The Benefits of Rural Roots
The Rural Roots Work Integrated Learning Program created more than 1,000 placements by August 10, 2023. Of these, more than 40% were students from underrepresented communities. The program engaged with 75 businesses that created WIL opportunities and hired post-secondary students. Based on survey results from employers and students, on average 94-95% of participants found WIL to be valuable and beneficial and 100% of students and employers found the resources and support from RDN valuable throughout their experience. Top resources included:
I had the pleasure of working with Rural Roots on another course-based project in Year 1 and saw my ideas being brought to life, so I jumped at an opportunity to take on another project. [This experience] was an opportunity to apply concepts like SWOT analyses and market research to an actual data set. I could see how the data influenced recommendations and supported community development.
Rural Roots Student
November 11, 2024
Community Development
Age-Friendly, Community Development
Informed by research and the experiences of the ABCD pilot communities, these guides have been developed to support rural communities looking to improve the lives of those living with dementia by becoming more dementia-friendly. Understanding that each community is unique with its strengths and perspectives, this guide is meant to be flexible and adaptable based […]
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Our event coordination team helps you organize impactful events while alleviating the stress. We also provide audio-visual services for in-person events, and to live-stream it online to expand your reach by going hybrid.
Learn MoreOur tailored sessions cover a spectrum of essential skills and knowledge areas. We can also customize workshops and training to your needs.
Learn MoreOur team works alongside you to successfully address community needs in many areas. We can help with:
Learn MoreOur dedicated team is committed to supporting rural communities to help them thrive. Connect with us to explore how we can work with you.
11443-143 Street,
NW Edmonton,
Alberta T5M 1V7
