Ep. 88 – Empowering local communities: the role of industry partnerships in higher education
In this podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Tamara Holmes and Lucinda Watson about the University-industry partnerships in the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT). Recorded on Gunditjmara country, Tamara and Lucinda highlight the purpose of the project is to facilitate connection and foster a sense of community among students, faculty, and industry partners.
Tamara and Lucinda shared insights into the development of the Warrnambool BSW and BOT program, discussing the primary goals of enhancing student engagement and preparing students for real-world challenges through industry partnerships. They highlighted the importance of such partnerships in the design and implementation of the program, providing examples of successful collaborations with local businesses and organisations. These partnerships offer mutual benefits, enriching the educational experience for students while contributing valuable perspectives from the industry.
The conversation also delved into the benefits of setting this program up and the connections that inform the design. Tamara introduces the campus as a living opportunity and highlights the – multi-layered connections that occur. Their discussion underscored the importance of persistence, investment and connections in this context. They shared their vision for the future of the program and plans for further enhancing industry partnerships and student experiences.
The concept of the campus as a living opportunity is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in education. By integrating industry partnerships into course design, a dynamic learning environment is created that prepares students for success in their careers. This approach not only benefits students but also fosters a sense of community among students, faculty, and industry partners, ultimately aiming to transform the educational experience holistically and inclusively.