All diplomas and BTech degrees offered by the School of Engineering at UNISA, an open and distance learning institution, contain a theoretical as well as a practical component within each module and a compulsory period of work integrated learning (work-based learning). The work integrated learning component consists of one year's training at an approved company and monitoring takes place by means of a mentor system, visits to Industry by a UNISA academic and a logbook. The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), which is the accrediting body for all engineering courses in South Africa, has worldwide accords ensuring that we meet international standards. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are dealt with in several Control and Process Instrumentation modules. By introducing basic concepts in the first year of study and building on that knowledge through each level, students will eventually progress to a stage where they are able to complete actual industrial tasks making use of the same equipment, software instructions and addresses used in Industry. Students verify that programs function correctly by simulating it on computer. UNISA, being an open and distance learning institution, we are continuously seeking enhanced and more efficient ways to support students in their studies. Currently, we are making instructional DVDs to demonstrate the use of PLCs. In this presentation, using PLCs as an example, it is shown how forming partnerships with Industry will benefit the educational institution, student and Industry. Modules are relevant to the workplace, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills required in Industry and are better prepared for what they will encounter in the workplace.
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