Real-World Learning in Higher Education: Condition, Credibility, and the Limits of Authenticity

By Charlie Watts

Examining real-world learning as high-stakes pedagogy in higher education, this must-read title argues that real, authentic projects with real authentic clients, differ fundamentally from in-class simulated learning because they involve trust, uncertainty, and reputational consequence.

Drawing on sustained teaching practice, the book reframes professionalism as endurance rather than performance, and failure as something that must remain intelligible and survivable within education. It explores trust, ethical boundaries, invisible labour, and the quiet reliance on goodwill that underpins much real-world pedagogy. It provides a reflective, ethically grounded account of learning that reshapes identity and judgement long after assessment has ended. Ideal reading for higher education educators who design, deliver, or support learning that involves real-world projects, live briefs, external partners, or authentic assessment.

It will be of particular relevance to academics working in practice-based, professional, vocational, creative, and applied disciplines, where learning involves responsibility, uncertainty, and outcomes beyond the lecture theatre. The book provides these readers with insight into the lived realities of real-world pedagogy, helping to inform policy, workload, and support structures.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1041379277
• ISBN13: 9781041379270
• Release Date: May 2027
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 200 Pages
• Dimensions: 6.1" x 9.2"