Challenges in Integrating Remote Internships into the Curriculum of Engineering Courses

• Grant number: 25/07538-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Production Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Renato Luvizoto Rodrigues de Souza
• Grantee: João Antonio Batalin Amparo
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Exatas e de Tecnologia (CCET). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Curricular internships constitute a critical stage in engineering education, allowing students to practically apply theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom. With technological advancements and the growing adoption of remote work, virtual internships have emerged as a viable alternative, presenting both new opportunities and challenges. This research aims to investigate the impacts of remote work on curricular internships within engineering programs. The methodological approach involves a literature review, surveys, and semi-structured interviews to explore difficulties encountered by interns-such as balancing internship activities with academic responsibilities-as well as benefits, including schedule flexibility and the opportunity to intern at companies located in different geographical regions. It is anticipated that the findings will provide deeper insights into remote work as it relates to mandatory internships in engineering curricula, assisting coordinators and students in making informed decisions regarding program implementation. Additionally, the results may inform the development of specific standards and guidelines tailored to the unique aspects of remote internships.