Institution-wide focus for structured industry engaged learning

This paper reports on the successful implementation of an institution-wide strategy for integrating and embedding Industry Engaged Learning into the curriculum. A case study on organisational change and curriculum enhancement, rationale and strategy for and components and assessment of the transformation are detailed. As such, the paper makes a general contribution to the literature on organisational change, and may be of particular value in the higher education context. Executives endeavouring to promote university renewal or encompassing curriculum change, and those concerned with enhancing learning outcomes from Industry Engaged Learning and similar models (cooperative education, Industry Placements, internships, Professional Practice) will find the paper relevant, fresh, thorough, and helpful. A major contribution of the paper is a model developed comprising an IEL Continuum and Depth of Learning Matrix that enables curriculum planners and course convenors to (a) assess, compare, and cost IEL programs and individual courses / units and placements and (b) enhance learning outcomes from programs and placements. This model is the centrepiece of the institutional change program described, forming the impetus for change and providing its conceptual framework and theoretical underpinnings. This model may be adapted for use in any institution or program and, if adopted / adapted, could substantially enhance the quality of the overall work experience for students and associated learning outcomes. The paper's practical contributions are complemented by strong theoretical grounding. Its authors are widely published in the areas of leadership, teaching and learning, and organisational change and development, features unified compellingly in this collaborative effort.