Transformation processes at KIA
The 14th meeting of the KIA Training Network on December 7 focused on the further development of the curriculum.
Due to the pandemic, the 14th conference of the KIA Education Network was held this year at BigBlueBotton under the theme “Transformation Processes—Further Development of Course Content.”
KIAdirekt and Studium 4.0
Following the Rector’s welcome remarks, Professor Worlitz presented the basic structure of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, among other topics, in his short presentation titled “News from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.” He then discussed the expansion of elective options during the academic semesters and the newKIAdirekt programin computer science, which is also set to be extended to other degree programmes. He also provided an outlook on the “Studium 4.0” project, which aims to introduce part-time Bachelor’s and Master’s programs and to slow down the overall pace of the degree program.
New Degree Programs and Accreditation
The brief presentation on the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering was given by Professor Bellair. Here, too, he provided a brief introduction to the faculty, presenting the new degree programmes: the part-time Master’s degree programme in Mechanical Engineering, the Bachelor’s degree programme in Mechanical Engineering Education, and the Bachelor’s degree programme in Green Engineering. In addition, the faculty’s existing degree programmes will undergo quality assurance through independent accreditation by 2028. The VDMA’s “Maschinenhaus Transfer Project” has been successfully completed. Furthermore, new findings regarding further development were presented. For example, a course-based learning module was introduced to guide students through their foundational and specialized studies.
The activity report for the KIA Training Network was presented by Dipl.-Ing. Thomas Amhaus. He once again addressed the unique circumstances under which KIA students have been receiving their training over the past two years. He covered general information such as trends in enrolment, additional qualifications, and tutorials, and provided an outlook on upcoming events within the training network.
Next, Dipl.-Ing. Nora Terlunen presented the ongoing project “Next Generation of Skilled Workers for Mechanical Engineering in a Changing Economic Landscape” by the Skilled Workers Alliance. The goal is to expand existing corporate partnerships and establish new ones to promote hands-on training for students. As part of this, the KIA (sandwich-style) degree course is to be strengthened and expanded to include theKIAdirekt format. In addition, students’ professional relevance is to be enhanced through a wider range of additional qualifications and instructional input from companies.
Finally, M.Sc. Sarah Barth presented the new KIA Master's degree programme in integrated management/integrated management systems offered by the Faculty of Natural Sciences.
Before the event concluded, participants had the opportunity to address the presenters with questions and comments regarding the KIA (sandwich-style) degree course. Professor Bellair closed the successful event with closing remarks.
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