Supporting industry based learning
The Faculty of Science and Technology at Deakin University offers students the opportunity to join the Industry Based Learning (IBL) program. The IBL program aims to place students in organisations that are typical graduate destinations for their course. IBL is a three way partnership between Deakin University, students and industry, providing excellent outcomes for all three stakeholders. Careers and Employment at Deakin University proudly supports this important work experience program.
Following is an interview with Associate Professor Dineli Mather, Associate Dean (Development and International). The Associate Dean works in consultation with the Dean to provide strategic direction and leadership in the Faculty in all matters concerning marketing, industry-based learning, graduate recruitment and industry partnerships.
How many students have undertaken IBL placements over the past 12 months?
Approximately 50 students completed an IBL placement between Trimester 3, 2008, and Trimester 2, 2009.
How does the IBL program enhance students' employability?
IBL plays a very valuable role in preparing students for graduate employment by giving them an opportunity to apply and consolidate knowledge gained at university, experience work place culture and work practices, explore career options and develop a professional network. Graduate recruiters usually give preference to students who have participated in IBL programs for these same reasons as they recognise that these students are better prepared for work and also likely to be making a more informed decision about their career choices.
Do many students get graduate positions from their IBL placements?
Yes. As most students complete the IBL Placement in their final year, the organisation will often offer the student a graduate position once they have completed their degree. It is a great way for the organisation to work with students to see if they fit into the culture and assess their capabilities before employing them full time. Even if the organisation where the student completed a placement is not able to offer a graduate role, other employers see the IBL component as being very valuable.
What are some recent placements and some of the projects students have contributed to?
- Accenture - IT placements on a major Telstra project
- Alcoa - Engineering placements at rolled products
- Glaxo Smith Kline - Chemistry placements at the Port Fairy site and Biomedical Science placements at Boronia site
- Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority - Environmental science and IT placements at Hamilton and Warrnambool
- IBM - IT placements at Southbank
- Industrial Control Technology - Engineering placement within Robotics
- Victoria Police Forensic Testing Labs - Forensic Science placements in drug testing
Can you share any feedback from employers about their experiences hosting Deakin University students?
The feedback is very positive - most employers like having bright, enthusiastic, energetic students in their organisation. The students bring in new ideas and look at things from a different perspective. Those who are looking for graduates find the program very useful both in terms of giving access to high performing students but also in providing a risk free opportunity to try the student out before offering a permanent role.
How does Careers and Employment at Deakin University support the IBL program?
Students applying for the IBL Program are required to use Deakin University's Resume Builder to develop their resume, with Careers and Employment staff providing further job application and job search assistance to students if required. In addition, Careers and Employment assist with facilitating a Professional Development Program on interview preparation, which all students are required to attend before an IBL Placement.
If you would like to host a student or get more information about the IBL program contact:
Associate Professor Dineli Mather
Associate Dean (Development and International)
Email: dineli.mather@deakin.edu.au
Phone: (03) 9251 7717
