How to Fill Out the SIWES/IT Logbook Effectively

 

The Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) is an important program designed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world industrial practice. One of the most crucial requirements during SIWES is the proper documentation of daily activities and experiences in the SIWES logbook. A well-kept logbook not only reflects seriousness and professionalism but also serves as evidence of skills acquired during the training.

Below is a detailed guide on how to fill out the SIWES logbook correctly:

1. Understand the Layout of the Logbook

• Most SIWES logbooks follow a similar structure, which typically includes:
• Student Information Section: Name, institution, department, matric number, and placement details.
• Weekly/Daily Work Record: Spaces to record activities carried out each day.
• Supervisor’s Comment Section: Space for industry-based supervisors to give remarks.
• Institutional Supervisor’s Section: For visiting lecturers or SIWES coordinators to write their observations.
• Signature/Stamp Section: To be signed weekly by the industry-based supervisor.

2. Filling in the Front Section

Before starting your training, carefully fill in the personal details on the first pages of the logbook:

Your full name, matriculation number, department, and institution.

The name and address of your placement organization.

The duration of your SIWES program (start and end dates).

This information should be written neatly and accurately since it validates your identity and placement.

3. Daily Activity Records

Each day, you are expected to write down the activities you carried out. To do this effectively:

Be specific and clear – Instead of writing vague entries like “worked in the office”, write “Assisted in data entry of financial transactions into Excel” or “Observed preventive maintenance of electrical equipment.”

Use technical terms relevant to your field of study where applicable.

Keep it concise – one to three sentences per day is usually sufficient.

For example:

Monday: Learned about the different types of electrical tools and assisted in wiring a control panel.

Tuesday: Participated in laboratory water analysis, carrying out titration for chlorine content.

Wednesday: Assisted in daily sales calculation and issuance of receipts to customers.

4. Weekly Summary

At the end of each week, write a short summary of what you learned and achieved during the week. This should highlight key experiences and skills gained.

Example:

“This week, I was introduced to basic laboratory safety rules, assisted in preparing reagents, and gained practical knowledge of titration methods. I also observed how results are documented and analyzed.”

5. Supervisor’s Comments and Signatures

At the end of each week, your industry-based supervisor should check your entries and make brief comments on your performance. Don’t forget to politely remind them to:

Write remarks (e.g., “Good progress this week, student is improving in handling laboratory procedures”).

Sign and stamp the weekly record.

This makes your logbook authentic and credible.

6. Institutional Supervisor’s Section

When your school supervisor visits for inspection, ensure they go through your logbook and write their comments. This section validates that you are truly participating in SIWES and not fabricating records.

7. General Tips for Maintaining a Good SIWES Logbook

Write daily – Don’t wait until the end of the week to recall your activities.

Be neat and organized – Avoid cancellations and rough handwriting.

Avoid repetition – Show variety in your work and learning experience.

Be honest – Record actual activities, not exaggerated or unrelated ones.

Keep the logbook safe – It is an official document that will be assessed at the end of your training.

Conclusion

The SIWES logbook is more than just a record-keeping exercise; it is a reflection of your commitment, learning, and professional growth during the training. By filling it out diligently, you make the assessment process easier for your supervisors and also create a personal reference book that can help you in future career development.