Providing a Local Model of Aligning the Development of University Technical-Advanced Educations with the Needs of the Labor Market

Abstract

The mismatch between university education and labor market demands is a critical concern for many education systems. However, there's a lack of established models to guide the development of strategies that address this issue. This article aims to bridge this gap by proposing a new, locally-developed model for aligning the development of advanced technical university education with labor market needs.The research employed a mixed methods approach with nested logic. The qualitative section utilized theoretical sampling based on the snowball technique. Interviews were conducted with 17 individuals until reaching theoretical saturation, a point where no new insights emerged. The quantitative section involved a survey administered to 120 experts. The validity of research tools was ensured through self-review techniques and triangulation across data sources. Additionally, Cronbach's Alpha coefficient confirmed the study's reliability.The findings reveal a multi-dimensional and interconnected set of factors influencing the effectiveness of aligning university education with market demands. The proposed model further demonstrates that causal, interventional, and contextual factors influence this phenomenon. Additionally, the model suggests potential economic, educational, and social outcomes associated with implementing strategies for developing advanced technical education. The research identifies "correct planning in strategies" as the most critical factor (total factor load of 4.14), while the presence of "skilled professors with executive experience" plays a less significant role (factor load of 1.000) within the model's framework.

Keywords

• university trainings
• appropriateness of training
• technical-advanced training
• labor market