Work based learning partnerships and structural capital: the case of Middlesex University.

The aim of the project is to enhance the value of work based learning to Middlesex University through the development of a critical understanding of the relationship between the Middlesex approach to work based learning and the concept of structural capital.
The project considers the Middlesex approach to work based learning and identifies the salient features of the approach. Key to the distinctive nature of the Middlesex approach is the recognition by the University of Work Based Learning as a field of study. The central theme of the project is how the existing demonstrable value of work based learning could be further enhanced by understanding the Middlesex approach in relation to intellectual capital and knowledge management concepts.
Intellectual capital is considered as being divided into human, structural and customer capital. The traditional area of expertise of the University has been the development of human capital. Consideration of knowledge management literature identified a range of factors generally seen as facilitating the enhancement of intellectual capital. These factors and the types of intellectual capital were used to examine three case studies of Middlesex work based learning partnerships with:
• a leading international construction management company
• a UK local authority
• an overseas higher education institution.
The case studies highlighted the importance of the structural capital of the University in the customised development, business focused operation and responsive evolution of the partnerships. The potential of the work based learning partnership to contribute to the structural capital of the partner and the University is highlighted by the case studies.
The report identifies the nature and the significance of the Middlesex University approach to work based leaning as a structural capital asset and concludes with 17 recommendations covering curriculum development, consultancy, research, partnership design and operation and staff development which will inform the future development of Work Based Learning at Middlesex and lead to a range of publications.

A project submitted to Middlesex University in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Professional Studies.