Universities and Higher colleges work together to create new training opportunities
The University of Portsmouth Mechanical and Design Engineering Department is planning to develop a Marine Engineering Bridging Unit that will be available to those currently employed in local marine companies and who have just, or are the process of completing, a level
3 Marine Engineering course.
This project will initially be trialed by the University of Portsmouth with the co-operation of its partner institutions; it will then be used by Southampton Solent University, University of Southampton, and any colleges within the network wishing to take part.
The aim of the bridging unit is to introduce students to some of the basic engineering principles by the development of academic and practical skills. It will give them a taste of teaching and learning in a University context looking at a range of engineering subject areas. This unit would also build stronger links with local college staff and marine employers.
Local Marine Engineering industry and colleges have shown a great interest in the development of this unit and its sustainability through employers after November 2009 is relatively feasible.
Access to and evaluation of high technology equipment has been expressed by employers as an important training requirement. Each college and university has its respected specialist skills and expertise.
For example, the Department of Mechanical Engineering where this project will be trialed, has skills in materials, composites inspection and metrological investigations. Highbury College has expertise in composite production. By working together, students would be able to manufacture a composite panel at Highbury College in one session which would then be 'inspected using advance techniques' in a following session at the University of Portsmouth. The proposed programme's approach is unique in linking FE and HE providers and their technological facilities.
There will be places for 12 to 20 students from local marine employers and/or local colleges. They will attend 5 day long sessions held at different partner institutions. The first 4 day sessions will be lab and workshop based. The 5th Day will be presentations and evaluation of work to date at a HE provider. The dates decided by the employer (so they can choose less disruptive days), would be run at intervals throughout the academic year. These sessions will be hosted at 4 of the partner institution, to make full use of the differing environments and technology.
If you would like to find out more email jasper.graham-jones@port.ac.uk or call 023 9284 2404.
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