More than just an add-on: Enhancing discipline-specific employability skills and awareness via the virtual learning environment

Dimitar Karadzhov; Laura Sharp; George Hatton; Fiona Stubbs; Julie Langan Martin

doi:10.56433/jpaap.v12i1.568

Authors

Dimitar Karadzhov University of Glasgow
Laura Sharp University of Glasgow
George Hatton University of Glasgow
Fiona Stubbs University of Glasgow
Julie Langan Martin University of Glasgow

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56433/jpaap.v12i1.568

Keywords:

employability, virtual learning environment, distance learning, curriculum design, graduate capital

Abstract

While students tend to recognise the value of employability skills and training, they often do not prioritise this due to academic demands, lack of clarity regarding the most sought-after employment competencies, and challenges attaining these whilst studying. The benefits of tailored, discipline-specific employability training have been well documented. However, little guidance exists as to how to integrate employability within the core online curriculum, particularly in disciplines with highly diverse and rapidly evolving career landscapes. To address this gap, this postgraduate taught learning development project systematically identified discipline-specific employability competencies, and integrated them into the core online curriculum, which aimed to boost students’ employability skills, awareness and career management skills. The rich learning generated from this project is captured in a series of actionable prompts and recommendations for identifying and implementing meaningful and scalable employability practices.

Author Biographies

Dimitar Karadzhov, University of Glasgow

Dimitar Karadzhov is a Lecturer at the University of Glasgow and teaches in the MSc Global Mental Health Programme. He obtained a PhD in Public Health & Health Policy from the Centre for Health Policy, University of Strathclyde. Contact details: dimitar.karadzhov@glasgow.ac.uk .
Laura Sharp, University of Glasgow

Laura Sharp is a Senior Lecturer at the Digital Education Unit, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow. Dr Sharp has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a PhD in Psychology from Glasgow Caledonian University. Contact details: laura.sharp@glasgow.ac.uk .
George Hatton, University of Glasgow

George Hatton is a Graduate Teaching Assistant at the University of Glasgow and has an MSc in Global Mental Health (University of Glasgow). Contact details: georgehatton19@gmail.com .
Fiona Stubbs, University of Glasgow

Fiona Stubbs is Careers Manager and Team Lead, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow. Fiona’s expertise is in recruitment, careers and education across a rich diversity of public and private sector roles. Contact details: fiona.stubbs@glasgow.ac.uk.
Julie Langan Martin, University of Glasgow

Julie Langan Martin is an Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist and Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Glasgow, Scotland, UK. She is Director of Education within the School of Health and Wellbeing, and Programme Director of the MSc Global Mental Health Programme. Contact details: julie.langan@glasgow.ac.uk.

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