The MIS practicum course, MIS 491 Management Information Systems Practicum, is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. As the name suggests, the course enables students to professionally apply their theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
In October 2024 (Term 4), the MIS concentration students had the opportunity to engage in a real-life data analysis project. To facilitate this, I collaborated with several companies through Riipen, an experiential learning platform that ASM partners with to source real-world projects. After careful consideration, I finalized partnerships with two companies, enabling 14 students to work on two distinct data analysis projects.
“Before I discuss the details of this experience, let me explain how I chose to do a data analysis project for our MIS students. When I joined ASM as a full-time instructor in February 2024, one of my first initiatives was a comprehensive evaluation of the MIS program. I analyzed the course content across the program and aligned it with the job market demands for MIS graduates. This research revealed that roles such as data analysts and business analysts are highly sought after in the industry. “
This discovery inspired me to adopt what I call the FTS Approach for teaching:
- Fundamentals: Building a strong theoretical foundation.
- Technologies: Introducing students to emerging and relevant technologies.
- Skills: Equipping students with hands-on, tangible skills.
This approach ensures that our students move beyond theoretical knowledge, acquiring the practical expertise necessary to transform businesses with information systems. Students gain experience with various technologies and tools relevant to MIS and data science by incorporating labs and practical assignments in introductory and advanced courses. The ultimate goal is to prepare students to apply these skills effectively during their final semester practicum and beyond.
In Term 4, 14 students divided into two groups to work on data analysis projects.
- EquiCharge (Vancouver): Seven students analyzed TransLink bus data to identify opportunities for transit electrification, contributing to sustainable infrastructure development.
- Multiplicity (Toronto): Seven students developed smart city success metrics, researching optimal indicators to classify cities as livable and successful.
Weekly stand-up meetings with each group provided opportunities to share project milestones, discuss the next steps, and troubleshoot challenges. These sessions, coupled with consistent guidance from both companies’ Chief Technology Officers (CTOs), helped the students stay on track and achieve the project goals.
Through this practicum, students gained invaluable technical and professional experience. They learned Python to create analysis dashboards, develop project management skills, and form professional connections with industry leaders. By combining classroom learning with hands-on experience, MIS 491 empowers students to confidently transition into the workforce, equipped with skills and connections that set them apart. This experience exemplifies the transformative potential of the MIS concentration at ASM.
By Arunim Garg- Lecturer – Management Information Systems
The MIS 491 Management Information Systems Practicum at ASM exemplifies the power of experiential learning. By bridging academic knowledge with industry application, this course equips students with the tools, skills, and connections needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market. The successful completion of real-world data analysis projects not only boosts students’ confidence but also positions them as valuable assets in their future workplaces. These transformative experiences highlight ASM’s commitment to fostering industry-ready graduates, making the MIS concentration a standout program for aspiring data and business analysts.
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