Embedding employability into an active learning curriculum

Power, EJ

Abstract

In a globalised environment there is high competition as well as significant opportunities. It is
essential that university graduates are industry ready, equipped with the necessary
professional and technical skills. This study investigates the relationship between active
learning strategies and the development of employability skills within apparel. The
curriculum development encompasses a variety of cutting edge technologies including 3-D
scanning/body morphology, material science/FAST objective testing, seam
engineering/material cutting technology and 3-D virtual garment simulation (utilising Vstitcher). The teaching and learning strategies incorporate the principles of active learning to
promote critical thinking, analytical and self development skills to ensure graduates are
industry ready. The effectiveness of embedding active learning into an advanced product
development curriculum was analysed using five independent tools. The findings of the
study concluded that many employability skills, in particular critical thinking, self
management, communication and problem solving were developed and these were attributed
directly to the teaching and learning strategy. Further to this the majority of students
recognised that active learning strategies would benefit them in their employment. This study
will have far reaching benefits; firstly in the development of pedagogy within the field of
apparel; and secondly in the integration of cutting edge technology, virtual simulation within
apparel product development is an area which is attracting much commercial interest,
introducing this into the curriculum will enhance graduate employability.

Citation

Power, E. Embedding employability into an active learning curriculum. Presented at The 88th Textile Institute World Conference 2012, Selangor, Malaysia

• Presentation Conference Type: Other
• Conference Name: The 88th Textile Institute World Conference 2012
• Conference Location: Selangor, Malaysia
• End Date: May 17, 2012
• Deposit Date: Jun 23, 2022
• ISBN: 9780956641939
• Additional Information: Event Type : Conference