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‘ Experiential learning ’
Uni degrees shift from exams to expertise
By Erin Nixon
Australian universities are rethinking curriculum and assessment delivery models to bridge the gap between classroom and career skills .
New degrees in engineering reflect a trend away from traditional curricula , placing value on experience over exam grades .
In a panel discussion at a recent conference in Sydney , UTS Vice-Chancellor Professor Andrew Parfitt said there are currently ‘ industry and university connection gaps ’ impacting the value of a degree .
Professor Parfitt said that by focusing on experiential learning and realworld application , students are better equipped with the skills the Australian industry needs .
“ Students need outcomes for what they ’ re paying for .”
In response to the evolving needs of Australian industry , institutions like UTS , RMIT , Deakin University and Charles Sturt University are reshaping their approach to education .
University students get real-world experience in their field of choice through partnerships with industry .
UTS and RMIT launched two four-week foundation programs in partnership with Apple , allowing students to learn directly from industry experts .
“ We are educating digital natives and creating the next generation of global citizens – career-ready professionals who are highly desired by employers ,” UTS Dean Ian Burnett said .
NO-EXAM UNIVERSITY DEGREE A 2022 report by Engineers Australia showed that Australia needs more engineers in nearly all disciplines of the profession .
Confidence in STEM and exam pressures have been barriers to entry for some students interested in studying engineering .
University students get real-world experience in their field of choice through partnerships with industry
In response to increased demand for qualified engineers , Deakin University ’ s ‘ no-exam ’ Bachelor of Engineering degree removed specialist maths prerequisites and has no traditional exams .
“ Our students learn by solving realworld industry challenges . [ They ] work in smaller sized classes to design solutions to engineering problems ,” said Ben Horan , the head of the school of engineering at Deakin University .
Recognising industry concerns about the shortage of adequately trained engineers in regional areas , Charles Sturt University changed the structure and delivery of its engineering courses .
CSU ’ s ‘ Netflix-style ’ on-demand courses allow students to spend over half their degree doing paid engineering work . ■
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