COOP Implementation - Discussion

In evaluating this proposal, there are some key issues that faculty must consider.  The first is the caution highlighted in the literature with respect to faculty time commitment.  Currently, the academic work is evaluated by the COOP Coordinator which is a 0.5 role with responsibility to: coordinate placement, teach COOP 290, and oversee the administration and assessment of academic work completed during work terms.  In order to provide the thoughtful formative feedback required to guide student reflection, it is likely that the recruitment of additional faculty participation will be necessary.

As well, faculty will have to assess whether blogger.com is the most appropriate program for students to use.  The analysis presented in the literature presents a strong case for its merits.  In particular, its public nature would potentially provide the opportunity to incorporate the participation of members of the supply chain profession (such as COOP mentors and program alumni) in the community of practice as well.  However, the advantages of the use of a public forum must be weighed against the disadvantages.  One important factor to consider is the fact that students complete their work terms in varied workplace settings.  The support of employers for the use of a public forum will need to be assessed.  It may be necessary to consider implementing more control over the access granted as employers may be reluctant to have students discuss their workplace experiences in their companies in a public forum.