Article

A Case Study of a Project Course Developed to Close Competency Gaps in an Industrial Technology Program

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Abstract

The goal of the university is to produce quality graduates. Specifically, industrial technology programs are designed to prepare technical and/or technical management-oriented professionals for the work environment. This paper describes the creation, implementation, and employer perception of a project course developed to close identified competency gaps of graduates of an industrial technology program. The competency gaps identified included professionalism, quality of work, critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills. In addition to closing the identified competency gaps, the course provided outcomes that adhered to both the National Association Indus- trial Technology and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology ABET accreditation standards. Of the 224 industry representatives who filled out an evaluation instrument on student projects, the representatives rated those students as very high to high achievement in the identified competencies. This course appears to have closed the identified competency gaps. Further- more, students learned to prioritize, adapt, manage conflict and prepare for industry demands. Overall, industry representatives were satisfied with the outcomes of the projects and felt that students demonstrated success in the competencies evaluated.

Keywords: accreditation|administration|curriculum|industrial technology|teaching methods

How to Cite:

Scott, S. & Boyd, G., (2008) “A Case Study of a Project Course Developed to Close Competency Gaps in an Industrial Technology Program”, Journal of Industrial Technology 24(4).