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Are we talking about the same thing? The case for stronger connections between graduate and worker employability research

  • Jos Akkermans*
  • , William E. Donald
  • , Denise Jackson
  • , Anneleen Forrier
  • *Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to JournalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Purpose and approach: This article presents the case for creating stronger connections between research on graduate and worker employability. We offer a narrative review of commonalities and differences between these research streams and offer thoughts and suggestions for further integration and mutual learning. Findings: We outline some of the main theories and concepts in the graduate and worker employability domains. Furthermore, we analyze how these show considerable overlap, though they have barely connected with each other yet. We also formulate an agenda for future research that would spur stronger connections between the fields. Finally, we turn to our fellow authors, reviewers, and editors to encourage a more open approach to each other's work that would enable more cross-fertilization of knowledge. Implications: We hope our narrative review, critical analysis and future research suggestions will lead to more collaborations and mutual learning among employability researchers in the educational, career and psychology areas.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)80-92
Number of pages13
JournalCareer Development International
Volume29
Issue number1
Early online date27 Sept 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 23 Jan 2024

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
Funding details: This study was supported by Interne Fondsen KU Leuven / Internal Funds KU Leuven (project C24 M/19/012).

Publisher Copyright:
© 2023, Jos Akkermans, William E. Donald, Denise Jackson and Anneleen Forrier.

Funding

Funding details: This study was supported by Interne Fondsen KU Leuven / Internal Funds KU Leuven (project C24 M/19/012).

FundersFunder number
Interne Fondsen KU Leuven
UK Research and Innovation103579
KU LeuvenC24 M/19/012

    Keywords

    • Careers
    • Education
    • Employability
    • Graduate employability
    • Worker employability

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