Virtual Booth

ABSTRACT   

The SmartPadlet: Practicum Students Hub is a digital innovation designed to address persistent issues faced by undergraduate students in the Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) – Human Resource Management and Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) programs, specifically during their Industrial Training (Practicum) subject. The hub aims to provide centralised, real-time access to accurate guidelines, templates, deadlines, and announcements to support students throughout the practicum process.

Previously, students relied heavily on outdated materials passed down from seniors or informal messaging platforms, which led to the submission of incorrect forms, miscommunication with supervisors, and delays in evaluation processes. This disjointed approach caused unnecessary stress for students and administrative inefficiencies for faculty members overseeing the practicum program.

Using a user-centred design approach, the project team developed a structured SmartPadlet platform tailored to practicum requirements. It was organised into key sections such as pre-placement briefing materials, updated forms, submission timelines, supervisor contact information, FAQs, and reflection resources. Input was gathered through informal consultations with academic advisors and feedback from past practicum students to ensure relevance and usability.

This project demonstrates the potential of lightweight, scalable digital tools to transform student support services in higher education. The Practicum Students Hub ensures real-time access, promotes self-directed learning, and reduces dependency on unofficial peer channels. The innovation aligns with institutional goals for digital readiness, academic efficiency, and student-centred learning. The model is easily adaptable across other programs or subjects that involve fieldwork, internships, or project-based learning.

Keywords: Industrial Training, Padlet, Practicum Support, Teaching Innovation