Host Organization’s Policies and Procedures

While on a placement, students are expected to observe all policies and procedures of the host organization, neither expecting nor requesting special privileges. This includes all health and safety guidelines as well policies around the use of technology for personal reasons (cell phones, computers, etc.)

Host Organization’s Confidentiality and Proprietary Information

It is the students’ responsibility to be aware of and comply with company policies and practices regarding confidentiality at the host organization. Data and research materials collected and prepared while working as a placement student are the property of the host organization. Students must consult with the host organization on the proprietary nature of any information used in their placement assignments, student reflections, or evaluations. In some cases, organizations may require students to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

Student Conduct and Behaviour During Placement

It is expected that students will conduct themselves professionally at all times and be respectful of supervisors and co-workers. A student’s work performance, attitude and professional conduct will influence the decision made by supervisors regarding a student’s evaluation. A student risks failure of a placement credit where improper conduct, substandard performance evaluation or termination from a placement occurs. A student’s performance may also impact a host organization’s decision regarding future partnerships with Mohawk College.

Absences from the Placement

Students must notify their supervisor or host organization immediately if they will be absent due to illness or other reasons. The host organization should be notified prior to the start of the student’s day. Students with excessive absenteeism or lateness risk termination from the placement opportunity and/or failing their placement credit. Students must ensure they meet the minimum hourly requirements of their placement agreement, and must make up any time missed towards those hours.

Student Concerns During the Placement

Students are generally expected to manage their own experience while on a placement and concerns should first be addressed with the student’s supervisor. However, there may be situations requiring the assistance of the Field Placement Support Officer. It is important that students with questions and/or problems contact their Field Placement Support Officer prior to taking any action.

Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)

In the case of unpaid placements, the Ministry of Colleges and Universities will provide the student’s insurance coverage for the duration of the placement. Prior to the start of the placement, the student and host organization will need to sign the “Declaration of Understanding” form and submit it to the Field Placement Support Officer as a pre-placement requirement.

Student safety on a placement is a top priority for the Centre for Experiential Learning. It is important that students are aware of their rights and responsibilities under the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).

If a student has safety concerns at their placement or sustains an injury on the job, they are required to immediately report the concern or injury to their supervisor/host organization as well as their Field Placement Support Officer.