Transitioning Students to the Workplace in an Academic Setting

In their collegiate studies, students are given a wide range of concepts, theories, and equations to assist them in their future endeavors. However, students have not been sufficiently exposed to practical critical thinking methodologies that will benefit them as they encounter open-ended problems. A course developed at the University of Michigan exposed upperclassmen undergraduates enrolled in the College of Engineering to strategies to develop their creativity and to enhance their problem solving abilities. These abilities, along with a number of “softer” skills necessary for student upon entering the workforce, are developed by the use of real-world examples and a course term project where students interacted with local businesses.