Traditional and Apprentice Modes of Learning at Undergraduate Level: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Traditionally, apprenticeships have been viewed as an alternative to traditional Higher Education (HE) pathways in Ireland. The Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has developed an advanced apprenticeship for qualified craft technicians (electricians and electrical instrumentation), enabling their progression to degree level. This research employed a case study approach to investigate the academic and professional preparedness of these technicians as they transitioned from Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 6 Further Education (FE) Craft Apprenticeship through an NFQ Level 7, Consortia Led Apprenticeship (CLA) in Industrial Electrical Engineering (IEE). Data collection included interviews, surveys, and an analysis of student performance.

The study compared these apprentices to students progressing within the traditional HE pathway, from the second to third year of an undergraduate electrical engineering degree. Findings demonstrate that both pathways effectively prepare students for Level 7 study and subsequent progression to NFQ Level 8 honours degree programmes.

Furthermore, the research highlights the strong industry demand for apprenticeship graduates, with many securing supervisory positions. This underscores the value of the apprenticeship model in developing highly skilled and employable electrical engineering professionals.

The study highlights a critical need for ongoing support for apprenticeship graduates in developing foundational academic skills. To address this, this research recommends that, in parallel to the review and reassessment of the Level 6 FE craft apprenticeship as part of the migration to the single model, a comprehensive review of the Level 7 IEE CLA also be carried out. This review should explore the possibility of extending this CLA with a Level 8 honours degree add-on. This integrated approach would create a more seamless and industry-relevant educational pathway for this cohort within the HE landscape.