What is the Cooperative Education (Co-op) Model?

The Cooperative Education (Co-op) Model is an educational method implemented by Kütahya Dumlupınar University, designed to integrate theoretical and practical training, allowing students to gain professional experience and enhance their vocational competencies within the business world. Under this model, students continue their academic education for seven semesters and spend one full semester in practical training at a workplace. This model enables students to collaborate with companies operating in their respective fields, closely observe professional life, and develop essential industry skills.

Workplace Training Portfolio and Content

During the workplace training period, every student is required to prepare a "Workplace Training Portfolio." This portfolio documents the student’s training process and must be updated regularly. It includes essential documents such as the workplace training contract, daily work reports, weekly reports, workplace training supervision forms, and the end-of-term evaluation form. Additionally, work plans and reports approved by the workplace training manager are also included in this portfolio.

Training Process and Evaluation

Students record their work regularly in their portfolios during their training and must have them approved by their workplace training manager. At the end of the process, the portfolio is submitted for evaluation. To succeed, students must meet a specific passing grade. The outcome of the workplace training is determined as either "Pass" or "Fail."

Support and Insurance During Training

Students participating in the workplace training are insured in accordance with Social Insurance Law No. 5510. This provides comprehensive coverage against work-related accidents and occupational diseases. Throughout their time at the workplace, students receive both theoretical and practical training simultaneously, guided by supervising faculty members.

Compensation and Remuneration

Specific payments are made to faculty members and workplace training managers involved in the process, covering the contributions of academic and administrative staff. Regarding the students, the university does not provide a salary for the training period; however, any remuneration provided by the employer is determined through an agreement between the student and the workplace.

This model provides students with the opportunity to gain experience in real-world professional environments alongside their academic studies, enabling them to step into the business world more confidently upon graduation.