User:Derekchiang/sandbox

SMU-X is an experiential learning framework where students tackle real-world opportunities by taking on projects from companies and community organizations – a paradigm shift which focuses on learning as opposed to teaching as well as a mind-set shift to get the university to collaborate both internally and with its external stakeholders.

A MIND-SET SHIFT

SMU-X endeavours to get the SMU community to collaborate and step out of their current silos. It aims to be a better city university, and for SMU students and faculty to work actively with the community to create meaningful impact. Each party brings with them their expertise and industry-specific viewpoints in a collaborative approach using both disciplinary knowledge and multi-faceted perspectives. Responding to the learning styles and motivations of today’s students, faculty and industry partners, SMU-X has two areas of focus:

a.       Curriculum

The SMU-X curriculum is built on four principles:
 * 1) Project-based experiential learning – SMU combines academic with experiential learning through the heavy use of projects from industry partners;
 * 2) Interdisciplinary approach – SMU challenges students to use their disciplinary knowledge and skills to tackle real-world opportunities through interdisciplinary approaches and activities;
 * 3) Active mentoring – SMU seeks to partner with corporate, non-profit and government-sector organizations. Industry partners and faculty are involved in active mentoring so that students benefit most out of this deep relationship;
 * 4) Tripartite learning loop – Students get a better understanding of what it means to use theory learnt outside the classroom; faculty learn how real-world adapts theories; industry partners deepen their own learning through faculty and students’ findings. This inculcates in our students, faculty and industry partners the value of continuous learning which is imperative going forward given our rapidly changing economic conditions.

b.       Learning Spaces

SMU-X is also about flexible learning spaces. As SMU believes that non-traditional pedagogy should be supported by active spaces, SMU-X teaches these electives in a flexible learning environment designed for collaborative work. SMU Labs is designed to support the SMU-X mind-set and curriculum. It is a 24/7 co-working learning hub to facilitate the coming together of individuals and groups to work on projects. SMU Labs also acts as a test bed for new ideas as well as space-planning to facilitate learning and living by today’s students.