“Work Immersion: A Mock Preparation for Grade 12 ABM (Pilot Study)”

Abstract

This report summarizes a Work Immersion Pilot Study designed to prepare ABM Grade 12 learners for upcoming work placements. The study used a Mock Exam, Practical Skills Assessment, and Routine Interview process.
The Mock Exam showed a generally positive starting point but highlighted areas for improvement. While students showed potential based on personality assessments, they needed more work in advanced mathematics, financial applications, error identification, and vocabulary.
The Practical Skills Assessment confirmed basic computer skills but revealed a need for better Excel skills, which requires focused training.
Interviews showed students had good communication skills and relevant knowledge, but they could improve their adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and overall communication style.
Feedback from teachers and evaluators indicated that students were generally well-prepared for the mock exam, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5. Student feedback highlighted the realism and usefulness of the practical skills assessment, averaging 4.86 out of 5, though Excel skills were a common challenge. Interview evaluations averaged 91.9 out of 100, with adaptability and cultural sensitivity scoring the lowest (19.13 out of 20), suggesting this area needs attention. Only a small percentage (3.45%) of students scored high in business/financial applications on math tests, and over 41% struggled with error identification in language tests.
These results suggest that while students are generally well-prepared and confident, specific skill gaps need targeted interventions, especially in Excel, adaptability, cultural sensitivity, business/financial applications, and error identification.