Enhancing employability through collaborative project-based learning.

Amish, Mohamed

Abstract

There is a gap between the skills taught in higher education and those needed in the workplace, with employers often finding engineering graduates lacking in soft and digital skills. Traditional university courses may not adequately prepare students for the job market as they are content focused and educator centered. To address this gap, formal education should incorporate essential pedagogy strategies and technology needed in the workplace, especially in the post COVID 19 era. Many universities are updating their curricula to align with industry demands. This study explores the role of technology and pedagogy based solutions in enhancing the employability of engineering students engaged in collaborative project based learning activities. The aim is to improve teaching and learning effectiveness and offer interdisciplinary courses that enhance students' job prospects. Data were collected from 205 project students through questionnaires, and qualitative data were gathered from interviews with 35 students and 25 supervisors, employing a mixed methods research approach. Analysis revealed that students actively participated in group discussions, decision making, and information sharing for the project. Collaborating within their learning community enhanced their learning experience through communication and involvement in group activities. Collaborative approach enhances creativity, sustainability, and innovation in engineering. Working together allows students to share ideas and develop creative solutions for complex problems, deepening their understanding of the subject. Collaborative learning has improved students' comprehension and career opportunities by integrating pedagogical techniques with technology. This approach has enhanced academic achievement and developed digital and soft skills, making students more competitive in the dynamic job market.

Citation

AMISH, M. 2025. Enhancing employability through collaborative project-based learning. International journal of innovative science and research technology [online], 10(1), pages 1923-1932. Available from: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14831458

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jan 27, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Jan 31, 2025
• Publication Date: Jan 31, 2025
• Deposit Date: Feb 11, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 11, 2025
• Journal: International journal of innovative science and research technology
• Electronic ISSN: 2456-2165
• Publisher: IJISRT
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 10
• Issue: 1
• Article Number: 1469
• Pages: 1923-1932
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14831458
• Keywords: Engineering; Collaborative learning; Soft skills; Digital skills
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/2701839