Praksisperioden

Praksisperioden, or internship period, is a defined phase in education or professional training during which learners undertake practical work placements in real settings to gain hands-on experience under supervision. It bridges theory and practice and is common in higher education and vocational programs.

Its primary aim is to develop professional competencies, such as practical skills, problem solving, communication, teamwork, and professional judgment, and to expose learners to workplace norms, ethics, and regulatory requirements.

Organization and duration vary by program, but typically involve a supervised placement, a workplace mentor, formal learning objectives, reflective work, and assessment by both the academic institution and the host. The period can last from a few weeks to several months.

Fields commonly using praksisperioden include teacher education, nursing and other healthcare professions, social work, engineering, information technology, and vocational training. In many systems it is mandatory as part of degree requirements or licensure, while in others it is voluntary to boost employability.

Assessment often combines workplace feedback, academic evaluation, and portfolio work; credits or a pass/fail grade may be awarded, with completion tied to degree conferment or certification.

Preparation and governance typically involve safety training, background checks, an internship contract, clarified roles, supervision arrangements, and compliance with labor laws and student rights.

Criticism concerns variable placement quality, uneven supervision, and gaps between curricula and workplace realities. Initiatives to standardize objectives and quality assurance seek to improve consistency.

See also internships, practicum, and field placement.