Work-integrated practices in a technology education setting

Abstract

This study sought to explore emerging university-industry partnerships in technology transfer education, the process for the engagement, and benefits to the learning and teaching experience. Participants were a convenience sample of ten lecturers at a technology university (females = 80%; management sciences = 70%). Data on the scope and nature of industry partnership practices and experiences were collected using semi-structured interview. Thematic data analysis revealed the lecturers to perceive benefits to learning and teaching from the university-industry engagement, including the use of field practice examples, customer service-orientated skills, innovation learning and technology transfer, curriculum enhancement and professional learning. A work-integrated approach to learning appears to be a serviceable model for real-world technology transfer education outcomes.