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Sustaining Learning Practices: Exploring the Roles of External Engagement for Engineering Graduates

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  • Pornthipa Ongkunaruk

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10903, Thailand)

  • Panuwat Rodchom

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10903, Thailand)

  • Bordin Rassameethes

    (Department of Technology and Operations Management, Faculty of Business Administration, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10903, Thailand)

  • Kongkiti Phusavat

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10903, Thailand)

Abstract

This exploratory study addresses the shift in employment preferences among recent engineering graduates toward small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups, highlighting the importance of learning. Learning, instead of conventional training, has been pivotal for the sustainability of small businesses. The study evaluated industrial engineering students’ perception of learning following a 2023 change, which replaced traditional exams with professional presentations and business reports based on enterprise visits. Using a mixed-methods approach with 218 third-year students, the findings demonstrate that external engagement relates positively to the perception of learning. Given the rising interest among new engineering graduates in SMEs and startups, these findings offer useful background for preparing workplaces to support and sustain business operations.

Suggested Citation

  • Pornthipa Ongkunaruk & Panuwat Rodchom & Bordin Rassameethes & Kongkiti Phusavat, 2026. "Sustaining Learning Practices: Exploring the Roles of External Engagement for Engineering Graduates," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 18(7), pages 1-15, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:18:y:2026:i:7:p:3218-:d:1903092
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