“Pracademia”: Proposing Academies of Excellence in Applied Sport & Exercise Science

Abstract

Experiential and work-based learning are not new concepts. Many higher education institutions have developed internal infrastructures and forged relationships with external partners to ensure appropriate work placements can be readily incorporated into the curricula. Such placements can help students to develop specific personal and professional skills that are difficult to teach within classrooms, lecture theatres, and even laboratories. However, for a work placement to fulfil its potential as an effective pedagogical approach, it should closely reflect the specific day-to-day happenings and authentic challenges associated with careers linked to the students’ field of study. The aim of this paper is to argue the case for an initiative designed to prioritise the professional development and employability of students at all levels of higher education. Specifically, the paper will provide a brief review of relevant literature before summarising some of the ongoing efforts within the Carnegie Faculty’s School of Sport that have instigated a call for the establishment of “Academies of Excellence in Applied Sport & Exercise Science”.