Employer priorities

In 2018 51 staff interviewed 163 employers to find out which learner capabilities employers most wanted in their new employees. Initial analysis of the recorded interviews identified the top 10 learner capabilities that were prioritised by employers in each industry sector, from a list of 25 capabilities developed from earlier research. Transcription of the interviews is under way now, so that deeper analysis can be undertaken.

On 26 and 27 March we shared the preliminary results from the interviews with our staff, especially those who had conducted the interviews. They were keen to see the results and to include these in programme reviews and curriculum planning. 

We have developed the LCF Employer Priorities Index booklet for dissemination to staff and to employers and stakeholders interviewed. This will also be shared with the implementation team for inclusion in their online tool and for further use for curriculum development. The booklet provides context and an introduction to the development of the LCF, the capabilities index to inform curriculum development, and an indicative barometer of what each sector considers are important capabilities in their employees.

Preliminary findings will be reported to tertiary educators in other institutions at a national symposium on 15/16 April and to participating employers on 15 May. There will also be an open presentation for other employers on 22 May, hosted by the Otago Southland Employers Association. Register here if you would like to attend.

Contact Leoni Schmidt for more information about this research. 
Funding for this research in 2019 from Ako Aotearoa's National Project Fund is acknowledged.