- Case study featured at launch of the Knowledge Exchange Concordat Repository of Good Practice on 20 July
- The Computer Science Industry Club was founded in 2016
- It connects students and academics with industry professionals to enhance curriculum development, recruitment, innovation and research.
A strategic partnership between industry and academia created by Aston University has been featured as an example of knowledge exchange innovative good practice at the Knowledge Exchange Concordat (KEC) Repository of Good Practice launch.
This recognition follows being awarded top rating for ‘working with business’ and ‘local growth and regeneration’ in the 2023 Knowledge Exchange Framework.
The Computer Science Industry Club was founded in 2016 in response to an increasing demand for the University’s computer science graduates and research expertise.
Led by Dr Maria Chli in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Aston University, it brings together students, academics and industry professionals through a wide range of activities focused on curriculum development, recruitment and research.
Innovative activities include guest lectures, student showcases, technical mentoring and student project proposals. Industry members vary in size from high-tech SMEs like Phoebus Software to multi-national corporations such as Capgemini.
The KEC Repository features good and innovative practice in knowledge exchange across eight different knowledge exchange principles, including a set of toolkits and guides available for use by higher education institutions (HEIs).
The online event, which took place on 20 July, demonstrated how the repository can help HEIs enhance knowledge exchange practices and learn from others, illustrated through institutional case studies of innovative good practice and resources and guides to support knowledge exchange practitioners.
The Computer Science Industry Club case study was presented at the launch by Dr Maria Chli, a reader in computer science, and John Richards, director of knowledge exchange, at Aston University. The results reinforce the University’s track record of quality industrial research partnerships and its leading role in delivering flagship Government programmes like Knowledge Transfer Partnerships.
Commenting on the Industry Club, John Richards said:
“Knowledge exchange is integral to our mission, and we fully recognise our role in supporting industry, commerce and the public sector to increase both regional and national economic growth and job creation.
“This activity complements the creation of our new Digital Futures Institute and the development of the Birmingham Innovation Quarter which will spearhead Aston University’s contribution to the economic regeneration of Birmingham and the West Midlands through digital transformation”.
Steve Pitchford, operations director at Majestic.com, shared his view on the Industry Club. He said:
‘‘The Industry Club is an innovative, business focused hub, offering digital innovators like Majestic opportunities to network with students and gain unrivalled access to the heart of a world class research and teaching institute.
“Having worked with the Industry club for a number of years I can attest to the significant benefit the scheme delivers to both business and the student base.”
An interview with the Computer Science Industry Club is on the KEC website.
- Notes to Editors
About Aston University
Founded in 1895 and a university since 1966, Aston is a long established university led by its three main beneficiary groups – students, business and the professions, and the West Midlands region and wider society. Located in Birmingham at the heart of a vibrant city, the campus houses all the University’s academic, social and accommodation facilities for our students. Professor Aleks Subic is the Vice-Chancellor & Chief Executive.
Aston University is ranked 22nd in the UK in the Guardian University Guide, based on measures including entry standards, student satisfaction, research quality and graduate prospects. The Aston Business School MBA programme was ranked in the top 100 in the world in the Economist MBA 2021 ranking.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Sam Cook, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44)7446 910063 or email: s.cook2@aston.ac.uk
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