Industry Insights: Assessing Canadian Undergraduate Industrial Design Practica through a Company Lens

Abstract

This research is a qualitative assessment of current undergraduate industrial design practica that are implemented in four-year-based accredited Canadian schools through industry expert insights.Bachelor of industrial design programs in this study offer hands-on industry experience to students between 3rd and 4th years who have completed preliminary program requirements to be considered as eligible candidates. While students take on the real-world experience through industrial design practica, some challenges are anticipated as students navigate multiple tasks in a company environment. To validate the effectiveness of current industrial design practica, the research is organized in the following methods.1. A case study of six Canadian industrial design practica through program handbooks and school websites.2. Semi-structured interviews of eight practicum advisors and thirteen company experts by using the Delphi Method.Research findings from academic and company insights propose ways to enhance the current industrial design practica by examining the roles of a key supervisor at a work placement, availability of student resources, degree of interactions within assigned departments, the need for funding sources, and understanding industry expectations. The research data also extracts other collaborative learning opportunities for undergraduate students through industry partnerships.