IISES International Academic Conference, London

EMPLOYABILITY THROUGH A LENS: MULTIDISCIPLINARY, STUDENT-CENTRED APPROACH TO SKILLS AWARENESS AND CAREER SUCCESS

STEPHANY VEUGER, WERONIKA BIALA, SETH RACEY

Abstract:

It has been observed that a large proportion of students do not reflect on both soft and hard skills gained throughout their university degree. This often occurs in relation to the content of their modules, which has been designed to equip students with various skills valued by employers. Skills reflection is an important task that students should be prompted to carry out regularly. In doing so, the process facilitates better performance during interviews, and interpersonal development. In our innovative project, with students as partners, we sought to help students reflect on the valuable skills they have gained from their course modules and better understand the real-world applications of their education. To address this, we have developed a module matix filled by each module leader, reflective skills sheets for students to fill in, talking heads interviews and podcasts with employers and alumni, and plans to develop blog posts to showcase the variety of career possibilities available. Students will gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and skills demanded in the job market. Our goal is to support students in making informed career decisions about their future and equip them with the knowledge and confidence to succeed in their chosen path

Keywords: Employability reflection skills