Reflections on work and learning and flexible curriculum

In this paper we reflect on the curriculum implications of some recent initiatives undertaken by The Open University in Scotland (OUiS). The University has traditionally delivered a flexible curriculum aimed at a part-time student population who are predominantly in work. More recently there has been a development of work-based learning (WBL) qualifications across a range of different discipline areas. We consider examples of workplace learning initiatives that have made use of both more traditional curriculum and curriculum designed specifically as WBL. We also consider examples of the impact of the growth of the curriculum through the development of non-accredited Open Educational Resources. In reflecting on some representative examples we look at how a Higher Education (HE) curriculum, whether conventional or work-based, can intersect and interact with work experience. In the course of this we share a “rich picture” developed to help us conceptualise work and learning.