Intellectual Outputs 3 – part 5

The event brought together representatives from three key sectors: international accreditation committees, higher education institutions, and industry. This allowed participants to examine the education process for future materials engineers from multiple perspectives, understand the challenges faced by higher education in the era of demographic and technological changes, and learn about new methods and tools for improving teaching quality.

During the first session, the focus was on accreditation standards and Lean Management. Discussions covered how Lean principles can help eliminate waste in academic processes and ensure that educational programs meet international quality standards. Best practices and insights were shared by experts from Poland, Turkey, and Ukraine, highlighting the growing importance of evaluation, aligning curricula with market needs, and the significance of interdisciplinarity.

The second session addressed challenges faced by universities in the context of declining student enrollment. Presentations emphasized the need to adapt educational offerings to meet the expectations of modern students, including greater flexibility in programs, a stronger emphasis on practical skills, innovative teaching formats (e.g., Project-Based Learning), improved communication, and more effective promotional efforts. The discussion explored whether it is better to train highly specialized engineers or to focus on broader, general engineering competencies.

In the third session, industry and research center representatives shared their experiences of collaboration with universities. They underscored the importance of practical skills, soft skills, presentation abilities, and the capacity to adapt to employers’ real-world needs. Solutions such as in-industry training (TWI), projects carried out jointly by students, university staff, and company representatives, as well as examples of research and R&D activities conducted in partnership with the private sector, were presented.

The conference as a whole highlighted the increasing importance of a holistic approach to education in materials engineering. The need for continuous improvement of teaching methods, the use of process optimization tools (e.g., Lean, VSM), consideration of international standards and labor market needs, and the promotion of new forms of collaboration between universities, businesses, and research units were emphasized. As a result, the conference served as a valuable forum for exchanging experiences, ideas, and inspiration for all those involved in shaping a modern and effective education system in the field of materials engineering.

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The closing conference of the Materials Science Ma(s)ters project summarized a two-year international collaboration aimed at developing a modern master’s program in materials engineering. The event was attended by representatives of partner universities, experts, students, and individuals involved in the project’s implementation. The conference provided an opportunity to present the results of the work and outline future directions for cooperation.

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1. Conference Opening and Introduction

The agenda of the meeting was presented, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in creating modern educational programs that address the needs of a dynamically evolving job market and technology landscape.

2. Project Background and Development Drivers

The origins, objectives, and expected outcomes of the project were outlined. Discussions highlighted how international exchange of experiences has enhanced the quality of education and strengthened relationships between universities.

3. Analysis of Industry and Student Surveys

Results from surveys conducted among students and industry representatives were presented. These findings served as a foundation for designing a study program that aligns with the actual needs of the materials engineering sector.

4. Presentation of the Innovative Study Program

The structure of the study program, consisting of 11 key thematic blocks, was discussed in detail. The modular design allows students to personalize their educational path and develop practical skills.

5. Program Development Methodology

A hierarchical approach to defining learning outcomes and a methodology for developing course content were presented. The program’s flexibility and compliance with European educational standards were emphasized.

6. Actions for Quality Education

Mechanisms for ensuring quality, such as regular meetings, study visits, and cooperation with industry experts, were discussed. Procedures for monitoring and improving the program to keep it aligned with job market needs were outlined.

7. Presentation of E-Learning Lessons

Developed e-learning lessons and their implementation on an educational platform were showcased. The materials are interactive and flexible, enabling students to learn at their convenience.

8. Best Practices

Examples of best practices developed during the project were presented, aimed at supporting academic staff in implementing modern technologies and teaching methods in materials engineering education. These include:

1. International Seminar integrating stakeholder perspectives for curriculum improvement.
2. Study Visits of academic teachers to international partner universities.
3. Mentoring System based on experiences from study visits.
4. “Bridges of Knowledge” – academic teachers visiting materials engineering companies.
5. “Innovative Hybrids” – workshops on blended-learning methods.
6. “Employability Skills” Workshops enhancing teachers’ professional skills.
7. Workshops on Learning Outcomes Formulation.
8. “AI-Buzz” – workshops for academic staff on using AI in brainstorming processes.

9. Discussion and Conclusion

The achievements of the project were summarized, and participants were thanked for their engagement. Future collaboration opportunities were discussed, including the potential for implementing the developed program at other universities and developing new educational initiatives. Participants agreed that the project outcomes provide a solid foundation for continued international cooperation and the adoption of innovative educational solutions