Swinburne University of Technology Students Benefit from Valuable Work-Integrated Learning in the Transformative Next Gen_Campus Revitalisation
Swinburne University of Technology students are gaining valuable work-integrated learning experiences through the transformative next gen_campus revitalisation.
In collaboration with our diverse student community, Swinburne is transforming our physical environment to deliver a better student experience.
next gen_campus will ensure our students have access to the latest technology and advanced facilities, co-created with students to ensure the new spaces meet their needs and priorities for a next gen_experience from enrolment to graduation.
Our collaborative approach creates unique opportunities for curricular and co-curricular integration, particularly work-integrated learning.
next gen_campus work-integrated learning experiences are being showcased through an installation at Swinburne School of Design and Architecture’s graduate showcase Grad X.
Industry experience for tomorrow, today
As we partner with industry leaders to deliver next gen_campus projects, students will have the opportunity to undertake work placements and make important industry connections.
Many companies who are contracted to deliver next gen_campus projects will be required to offer placements to Swinburne students, embodying our commitment to work integrated learning and real industry experience to produce job-ready graduates.
Bachelor of Design (Architecture) student Isabella Violaris secured a placement with leading architecture and design firm Kosloff Architecture, who has partnered with Swinburne to design our new Latelab and student hub.
“This involves working with project architects and senior architects by compiling reports, developing diagrams, and conducting research that contribute to various projects,” she said.
“As a result of my work, I have been awarded a permanent contract to continue working with Kosloff Architecture after the conclusion of my placement.”
In addition to providing an important foot in the door to the competitive architecture industry, the placement has helped Isabella develop skills beyond the classroom.
“I’ve been able to develop new skills through this experience of being in a workplace, particularly time management and how to work more efficiently,” she said.
“I’m excited to go back to uni next semester and use what I’ve learned, while continuing to gain valuable experience in the industry.”
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Education, Experience and Employability, Professor Pip Pattison said Isabella’s experience showcases the unique benefit of a next gen_degree at Swinburne.
“There’s so much more to education and learning than being in the classroom,” Professor Pattison said.
“That’s why we place such importance on work-integrated learning in the form of placements, internships and industry-linked projects – in fact, it’s guaranteed in all our bachelor degrees.
“Isabella’s story shows how beneficial it is to give students the confidence, skills and real industry experience they’ll need tomorrow, today.”
Architecture student Isabella Violaris has secured a permanent position at Kosloff Architecture as a result of a work-integrated learning placement facilitated through the firm’s partnership with Swinburne to design the new Latelab and student hub.
Designed for students by students
Communication Design students are using their creative talents to encourage other students to get involved in co-creating next gen_campus projects.
From on campus signage to interactive games and beyond, students are able to apply the design skills they learn in the classroom to real world work experiences.
Marco Simonovski designed an interactive game showcasing next gen_campus to prospective students on Open Day 2023.
“Marco’s design enabled us to present our campus on a map that felt more youthful and appealing to our target audience of prospective students, and enabled us to engage them about the new developments at Swinburne in a fun, interactive way,” Professor Pattison said.
“Developing a design based on our brief while managing deadlines and client feedback, this experience of work-integrated learning will put him in good stead to become a job-ready graduate.”
Communication Design student Marco Simonovski designed an interactive game showcasing next gen_campus to prospective students on Open Day 2023.
Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) students Ella Whitehead and Charlotte Day are designing an interactive installation to facilitate student feedback on all aspects of the student experience.
“Through the use of engaging artwork to emphasise the potential of student co-creation, our installation will encourage students to find out more about next gen_campus and have their say through surveys, polls and more,” Ella said.
Like Marco, Ella and Charlotte are gaining valuable experience to prepare them for their careers.
“Responding to real world problems and applying my skills in a professional setting has enriched what I’ve learned in my degree, and I’m confident it’s setting me up for success in my career,” Charlotte said.
Communication Design students Charlotte Day (left) and Ella Whitehead are using their creative flair to encourage other students to get involved with next gen_campus.
Capturing the legacy of student co-creation
The next gen_campus journey is being documented by Photomedia student Marcus Lee, honing his skills through event, landscape, and portrait photography.
The body of work he is developing includes a variety of subjects, from co-creation workshops to the progress of projects as they are developed.
“Marcus has been an asset to the next gen_campus team throughout the year, creatively capturing all the colour and movement of our events and helping showcase our work to the wider Swinburne community,” Professor Pattison said.
”We’re proud to have been able to provide this experience for Marcus to develop his skills and learn beyond the classroom right here at Swinburne.”
Photomedia student Marcus Lee has captured next gen_campus activity throughout 2023, including co-creation workshops and on-campus events.