Graduate readiness – a kaleidoscopic view. Co-creating and supporting student projects using a multi stakeholder approach

Abstract

This study presents findings from an innovative approach within the Liverpool Business School to developing the understanding of graduate readiness using a multi stakeholder approach. Based on primary research undertaken with student teams, the module leader and professional business consultants, all who collaborate to create real life value on unique projects for a real life business client from the Liverpool City Region in the Level 6 Business Consultancy module, a kaleidoscopic model of graduate readiness is proposed. A combination of Clarke’s (2018) six dimensions of graduate employability (human capital, social capital, individual attributes, individual behaviours, perceived employability, labour market forces) and LJMU’s nine key employability skills (LJMU Skills Checker, 2023) is used to explore graduate readiness from the three actors perspectives. That is, the student, the business consultant and the module leader. Using individual semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus groups (Bell, Harley & Bryman, 2022) the concept of graduate readiness in students in semester 2 of Level 6 is explored with a number of key themes emerged. These themes will be presented at the conference with each actor (student, business consultant and module leader) presenting their view separately which will then be combined to present a kaleidoscopic model and perspective. Currently this research is in progress.

It is proposed that this bricolage approach (Gordon, 1999) not only develops the theoretical understanding of graduate readiness but also allows the Liverpool Business School to work with industry partners (business consultants and project clients) to collaboratively understand and developed graduate readiness to ensure that this is aligned to the needs of the regional skills based.

Graduate readiness – a kaleidoscopic view. Co-creating and supporting student projects using a multi stakeholder approach, PowerPoint. Only LJMU staff and students have access to this resource.