Improved project-based learning as the method of knowledge transfer between university and business

Abstract

The universities should provide for students the possibilities for gathering the actual applied knowledge and soft skills to prepare them for labor market needs. There are two pillars of success. The first pillar is learner-focused pedagogy and active learning. Recent publications have demonstrated the vast potential of project-based learning (PBL) through information and communications technologies (ICT). The second pillar is close University-Business collaboration during the study process. In the paper, we proposed the modification of PBL – improved PBL, which involves the students in real problems solving. The real problem means that the problem is actual for Company just in time of the course period. Improved PBL provides a competent approach in the teaching activities. The advantages and difficulties of improved PBL implementation for different stakeholders are generalized. It is shown that improved PBL supported by ICT means is attractive for the companies within the framework of their collaboration with higher educational institutions. Authors describe two alternatives of ICT infrastructure – based on learning management system Moodle and extended by social media tools Google Docs and Telegram. As well, authors provide a short description of IPBL implementation process. The examples of two courses demonstrate the effectiveness of University-Business collaboration for attracting students to solving the real problems under changing market conditions. The improved PBL supported by ICT means helps students to understand the course material better as well as to adapt for the realization of their own educational and professional potential in the labor market. The actualization of teachers' knowledge and enhancement cooperation in the frame of the knowledge triangle “Students-University-Business” are additional gains of IPBL. Also, in conclusion, there are generalized the main challenges of IPBL implementation.