The Gap Between Higher Education and Workforce Development
Concurrent Session 9
Brief Abstract
Employers continue to communicate that college graduates do not have the skills needed for today’s diverse environment. Discussion centers on how higher education institutions can develop micro and digital credentials supporting workforce training and development that cross walks into college credit with the transferable skills needed for today’s workforce.
Extended Abstract
Employers and those in workforce development report that the expectation of college and university graduates is they are ready to enter the job market. However, research supports the lack of preparedness of graduates in the area of soft- and technical skill development. Though intentional course and program outcome design, this workshop will assist in the development of graduate soft-skill attainment that will promote graduates’ pathways into the workforce including digital and micro credentials. Using case studies and research data points, participants will leave the session with tools and actions creating credentials that support academic credentials and verifiable workforce development skills.