Students' perceptions of competencies by the end of a masters' degree

Abstract

[PT] Os modelos atuais de empregabilidade, abrangentes e complexos, incluem nao apenas o conjunto de competencias técnicas e transversais necessárias a integracao no mercado de trabalho, mas consideram também urna componente subjetiva que integra as crenvas e atitudes individuais. Apresentam-se os resultados preliminares de um estudo centrado nas percei;:oes de competencias e preparai;:ao para o mercado de trabalho, realizado com 214 alunos, finalistas de mestrado. Os resultados obtidos apontam para urna elevada correlai;:ao entre competencias práticas, competencias de empregabilid.ade, preparai;:ao e expectativas de sucesso na transii;:ao para o trabalho. Reali;:a-se ainda a importancia da integrai;:ao de urna componente prática nos currículos educativos

[EN] Current models of employability are rather broad and complex, including not only a set of skills as determinant factors in employability, but also a subjective dimension that considers individual self-beliefs and attitudes. This study presents the preliminary results of a research project focused on the factors that impact employability with 214 participants, senior students taking a masters' degree. Results pointed to a closer interconnection between the practica! competencies, employability competencies, preparedness to work transition, and expectations of success. These findings stress the importance of a stronger practica! component in the curriculum, as a way to promote employability.