The STEM Host Guide, developed by Dr Sophie McKenzie and Associate Professor Karen Young at Deakin University (SEBE), is a novel digital resource designed to enhance the host’s experience of supervising a student during placement-based Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities. The Guide — complemented by a host video — captures the essentials of effective student supervision, including:
• Clarifying roles and expectations for hosts and students.
• Engagement strategies that balance “working to learn and learning to work.”
• Performance review criteria with structured goal setting, constructive feedback loops, and formal mid/end placement discussions.
• Evaluation tools such as a grid map with three domains: discipline specific STEM knowledge, ethical/professional obligations, and employability skills (communication, critical thinking, collaboration, self management).
• Rating scales that track progression from early learning to independent, forward thinking practice.
While this guide is primarily intended for hosts, we also see its value for students and university staff. For students, the explanation of how performance is evaluated and how to meaningfully engage with their host is a critical educational element. For educators, the Guide provides a tested framework and adaptable tools to align placement activities with STEM curricula, that can be translated based on learning context.
By combining flexibility with tested hosting practices, the STEM Host Guide empowers educators, industry partners and students to co create meaningful, personalised placement experiences that foster professional growth and work readiness across diverse STEM contexts.
