Corporate communication learner opinions of experiential learning for professional development in South Africa

Abstract

Experiential learning in corporate communication practitioners' professional development has been emphasised by South African higher education institutions and the business sector alike. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore corporate communication postgraduate learner opinions on the contribution of the experiential learning component (internship) towards their professional development. A qualitative research strategy was selected, using qualitative questionnaires and analysing the data through Tesch's descriptive method for open coding. It was found that learners experienced the completion of their internships as an invaluable component in their professional development. Furthermore, a streamlined approach to the management of internships could enhance the success of internship experiences. The study provides insight into the opinions of learners regarding the value of experiential learning and assists in identifying problem areas which could aid the philosophy, structure and management of other experiential learning programmes.

Keywords:

• Communication training
• corporate communication
• experiential learning
• internships
• learner perceptions
• professional development