Strengthening Theory and Practice Link in Higher Education: An Investigation into Lithography Printing Faults

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a six-week structured pre-press and press activities programme based on integrating theory and practice at the industrial level. The study consisted of twenty-four participants with minimal industrial skills and work experience in lithography printing faults, causes, and remedies. Purposive sampling was used. Qualitative research method and action research design were employed. Data was collected through interviews, observation, focus group discussion and tests. The study was analysed through Thematic and Descriptive analysis. Analysis of the data shows that, at the end of the six-week programme, all 12 participants who took part in the industrial training greatly improved in skill development and work experience in all aspects of the pre-press and press activities. However, the other 12 participants who did not participate in the training did not acquire any skills. This study suggests that integrating theory and practice at the industrial level could enhance graduates' skill and work experience in lithography printing faults, causes and remedies to bridge the gap between theory and practice.