‘Real’ learning: The challenges of involving students with consultancy work

While a majority of higher education staff in UK universities use their research expertise to lead or inform their teaching there has been relatively little exploration of the ways in which paid consultancy work may similarly be used to advantage. Research-led teaching is believed actively to engage students in learning to encourage them to develop independent and critical thinking and to develop the personal and professional skills that underpin a knowledge-based economy. ‘Consultancy’ while fundementally a business endeavour can also bring a rich 'real-life' learning experience into the classroom. This report explores the benefits challenges and ethical considerations required to take inquiry-based learning to the next level.