ABSTRACT VIEW
Abstract NUM 230

ENHANCING LEARNING TRANSFER THROUGH THE INDUSTRY NOW CURRICULUM (INC): AN ACTION RESEARCH STUDY
J. Tong, L.C. Tiew, E. Pock, J.J. Heng, T.L. Tan, C.H. Chan
Singapore Polytechnic (SINGAPORE)
This action research investigates the impact of the Industry Now Curriculum (INC), which integrates real-world industry experience into academic learning to enhance students' ability to effectively transfer their knowledge during internships and, ultimately, in the workplace.

The study employs robust tools such as the Learning Transfer System Inventory (LTSI) and the Learning Transfer Evaluation Model (LTEM) to meticulously measure the factors influencing learning transfer and the effectiveness of the INC programme. Data was collected from Diploma in Perfumery & Cosmetic Science (DPCS) INC students through comprehensive surveys and insightful focus group interviews. This research aims to provide a thorough understanding of how the INC programme facilitates learning transfer in workplace settings, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Ethical considerations were paramount throughout the study, including maintaining participant confidentiality and ensuring voluntary participation. The study's findings are expected to identify key factors that significantly influence learning transfer, offering actionable insights to enhance the INC programme's impact on job performance. By understanding these factors, educators and industry professionals can better design and implement curricula that effectively prepare students for workforce demands. This research not only contributes to academic discourse on learning transfer but also provides practical recommendations for improving educational practices and training programmes.

The study’s findings will be particularly valuable for institutions seeking to adopt or refine similar industry-integrated curricula. By highlighting the successes and challenges of the INC programme, this research offers a blueprint for other educational programmes aiming to enhance learning transfer and improve student outcomes. Ultimately, this study underscores the importance of aligning educational strategies with industry needs to foster a more competent and adaptable workforce.

Keywords: Collaborative, Problem-based Learning, University/Industry Experiences, Workplace Learning.

Event: ICERI2025
Track: Quality & Impact of Education
Session: University-Industry Collaboration
Session type: VIRTUAL