Bridging the Gap from Classroom-based Learning to Experiential Professional Learning: Preparing Ideal and Competent World Class Graduates

Abstract

With the increasing need to prepare our students for professional life, this proposed project aims to align the classroom learning input with industry needs using experiential learning across the curriculum. This aligns with the FHS and City University's shared mission to foster links with the business community. The project has a threefold purpose, and is implemented in stages. It intends to enhance students' professional awareness-knowledge-skills through a multi-leveled approach integrating classroom learning with professional practice. In Year One students will be introduced to professional communication, both within the existing curricula, and through a series of workshops with invited industry speakers. In Year Two we will develop students' working experiences with guidance from the professional mentor/host and the faculty supervisor. Formative and summative assessments based on journals-and-logs will be used to track the students' professional development. A debriefing mechanism will be built in enabling students to share their learning and professional challenges, and theory application to problem-solving scenarios. Multiple evaluation procedures will be used to measure the project effectiveness, including industry consultants, student interns, hosts and supervisors. The project will promote closer ties with the business community and enhance students' professional competencies to increase future success in the competitive job market.