A practicum is an undergraduate or graduate-level course, often in a specialized field of study, that provides students with supervised practical application of a previously or concurrently studied field or theory. It is also known as a work placement, especially in the UK. The main purpose of a practicum is to give students real-world experience in their chosen field, allowing them to apply what they have learned in the classroom to a professional setting.
Practicums are commonly used in sectors such as education, nursing and medicine, psychology, and social work. The specific nature of a practicum can vary depending on the field of study. Some practicums focus more on observation and documentation, while others encourage direct participation. For example, an education major may observe classroom management and pedagogies, as well as lesson planning, while a nursing major may record vital signs for one or two patients under supervision.
One key difference between a practicum and an internship is the level of expected involvement in hands-on work. Practicums typically have a greater emphasis on observation and learning, while internships often involve more direct participation in the work of the organization.
