Shu-gyo-ryoku: An Academic and Career Skills' Enhancement Program for Engineering Students at Gunma University

  • Matsumoto, Hiroyuki (Support center of Shu-gyo-ryoku, Gunma University) ;
  • Amagai, Kenji (Support center of Shu-gyo-ryoku, Kiryu Branch, School of Engineering, Gunma University) ;
  • Yuminaka, Yasushi (Support center of Shu-gyo-ryoku, Kiryu Branch, School of Engineering, Gunma University) ;
  • Keith, Barry (University Education Center, Gunma University)
  • Received : 2011.10.04
  • Accepted : 2012.09.10
  • Published : 2012.09.30

Abstract

Shu-gyo-ryoku, a program to enhance students' academic and career skills, was begun in the academic year 2011. Under the new program, "Career Planning" and "Career Design" were introduced as part of the liberal arts education for incoming freshmen. Approximately 500 students majoring in engineering enrolled in "Career Planning" in which they study a "curriculum map" and how it relates to their future fields of employment. The curriculum map illustrates the connections between classes and increases students'understanding of the curriculum structure. In small groups, students discussed the curriculum in order to develop sketches of their career paths. In addition, students answered a career anchor test and though several communicative activities, improved their communication skills. A portfolio system was built into the university network to record the learning history of each student. Students are able to check their learning histories and reflect on the change in themselves during their academic careers.

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References

  1. http://www.mext.go.jp/a_menu/koutou/kaikaku/shugyou/1296632.htm.
  2. Materials of the Meeting of East Japan Area Shu-gyo-ryoku Program, Aoyama Gakuin University, Aoyama campus, 28 July 2011.
  3. Matsumoto, H (2011). Course Design for Academicand Career Skills -Course for Engineering Majors-, 2011 JSEE Annual Conference Proceedings: 146-147.