An evaluation of workforce presentation instruction in IE capstone design

For the past several years, workforce communication instruction has been integrated into Industrial Engineering (IE) Capstone Design courses at Georgia Tech. The instruction is based on actual interviews with practicing IEs, managers, and senior executives. Evaluation data from a new cohort which expands results previously reported are now available. Included in the instruction are 1) a tutorial, 2) a number of sessions for practice and feedback on the workforce presentation skills in a Workforce Communication Lab, and 3) a senior executive panel discussion on communication skills needed to move up the career ladder. The evaluation criteria include student-perceived confidence and competence. Also described are data on student needs reported at the beginning of the course and student benefits reported at the end of the course. The results provide substantial evidence that the instruction in workforce presentation skills is effective in the eyes of students