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Logic of internship learning in hybrid engineering workplace settings: A sociomaterial assemble of digital tools, humans and activities
Citation
Chue, S., Säljö, R., & Lee, Y.-J. (2024). Logic of internship learning in hybrid engineering workplace settings: A sociomaterial assemble of digital tools, humans and activities. Studies in Continuing Education. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/0158037x.2024.2422832
Abstract
During the recent pandemic, established modes of organising internships in engineering were disrupted; Internships often transitioned into hybrid formats with extensive online activity. But, empirical research on the quality of learning in engineering during these exceptional circumstances is limited. This study therefore examines internship experiences among engineering undergraduates (N = 39) in Singapore through semi-structured interviews conducted at two different time points. Thematic analysis revealed four challenges encountered by interns when access to engineering sites was disrupted. These included changes to processes of learning through the reorganisation of work routines requiring interns to adeptly utilise diverse technological tools and digital platforms for remote collaboration. Interns faced difficulties in gaining insights into the logic of engineering work through disrupted workflow. This was not helped when their learning experiences were also contingent upon the availability of meaningful work tasks. Finally, interns had to adapt to virtual and on-demand networking as a means of integrating into the engineering practice. Thus, the shift presented both challenges and opportunities for interns to learn about engineering in unprecedented ways. This research sheds light on how interns adapt during severe disruptions to engineering work environments, emphasising the importance of considering the sociomaterial context for supporting interns in hybrid workplaces.
Date Issued
2024
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Journal
Studies in Continuing Education
DOI
10.1080/0158037x.2024.2422832
Grant ID
GA18-06
Funding Agency
SkillsFuture Singapore Agency