The Evaluation of Internship in the Digital Information Age: A Case Study

Abstract

This study evaluates the merits and challenges associated with onsite and online internships, focusing on their impact on objective achievement, intern-industry interaction, interdisciplinary learning, and globalization through the four-I’s framework: intentional, interconnected, interdisciplinary, and international. By comparing the experiences of 21 students engaged in eight-week onsite programs alongside 21 online interns, the study finds that online internships offer flexibility and global accessibility, enhancing international skills. However, they score lower in intentionality, interactivity, and interdisciplinary learning. In contrast, onsite internships excel in providing hands-on experiences, real-time observation, teamwork, and the development of interdisciplinary skills development, albeit underutilizing international dimensions. Future investigations could explore how technological advancements like augmented reality and virtual reality might enhance online internships. Additionally, it could examine how digital tools and social media platforms could facilitate interaction among online interns, mentors, and host companies within the evolving internship landscape.