Journals Information
Universal Journal of Educational Research Vol. 9(8), pp. 1589 - 1598
DOI: 10.13189/ujer.2021.090811
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Integrating Industry-Specific Training into Mainstream University Computer Science Curriculum: Case of SMU
T. Hungwe 1,*, T. A. Dandadzi 1, S. M. Seeletse 2
1 Department of Computer Science, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Ga Rankuwa, 0208, Gauteng Province, South Africa
2 Department of Statistics and Operations Research, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Ga Rankuwa, 0208, Gauteng Province, South Africa
ABSTRACT
Changes in industry promote curriculum reforms in education, especially in higher education, which serves as an industry feeder. The need to renew the Computer Science curriculum (CSC) is critical because it is dynamic and constantly evolves as the axis of modern technology. Integrating the industry's needs into the CSC can be a useful strategy for keeping up with such changes. A number of countries in Europe and beyond have developed ways in bringing vocational training into mainstream university curriculum. This paper discusses the significance of integrating industry-specific training (IST) into the existing CSC in higher education. The Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, South Africa is used as an example. This integration combines standard academic CSC content with beneficial, carefully selected industry aspects. The study followed a qualitative design, which encompassed the ideas and perceptions of the students enrolled at the time, experiences of former students who are employed in the computer science industry, and lecturers. Data were collected using questionnaires, directed to each stratum. Thematic content analysis was used to analyse the data. Results from the study were satisfactory and affirmed that, IST integration into the CSC is valuable, helps build networks and integrates timely mentorship into the world of work in the students.
KEYWORDS
Computer Science Curriculum, Futuristic Curriculum, Industry-Specific Training, Integration
Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] T. Hungwe , T. A. Dandadzi , S. M. Seeletse , "Integrating Industry-Specific Training into Mainstream University Computer Science Curriculum: Case of SMU," Universal Journal of Educational Research, Vol. 9, No. 8, pp. 1589 - 1598, 2021. DOI: 10.13189/ujer.2021.090811.
(b). APA Format:
T. Hungwe , T. A. Dandadzi , S. M. Seeletse (2021). Integrating Industry-Specific Training into Mainstream University Computer Science Curriculum: Case of SMU. Universal Journal of Educational Research, 9(8), 1589 - 1598. DOI: 10.13189/ujer.2021.090811.