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ABSTRACT
Previous research has demonstrated several benefits of work placements, including improved academic attainment and employability prospects. However, it may be important to recognise that there is a self-selection of placement students. There may be characteristics which make students more likely to choose to take a placement, and also make students more likely to gain higher grades and employment. The current study explored the characteristics and attributes of students who consider taking a placement year, focussing on personality and autonomy. One hundred and fifty-nine psychology students completed measures of personality and autonomy, and answered questions regarding their intentions about taking a placement year. The study revealed that students who consider taking a placement are more conscientious and more autonomous than students who do not consider taking a placement. These findings have important implications for research examining the benefits of placements, and also for practices for advertising and promoting placement years.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.