Please describe the case in detail

In particular please consider (a)Objectives of the intervention; (b) Tools used to achieve the project goals; (c) Methodologies applied;

The School Bureau for Cooperation Career Counselling and Project Support organizes in PWSZ periodic focus groups with representatives of companies from particular sectors of the labour market to evaluate the graduates' suitability for the labour market, identify potential lacks in their skills and monitor the changes taking place in the world of work.
The State Higher Vocational School in Tarnów, realizing the model of cooperation between the university and the labor market, invites companies' representatives to participate in a qualitative study, the purpose of which is to obtain information on the preparation of graduates in materials engineering to work on the local market.
The focus test is a discussion moderated by a specialist in the field of University's cooperation with the labor market. The discussion focuses on the experience of employers in the field of employment and cooperation with PWSZ graduates in Tarnów.
Each department of the school organizes focus groups of prospective employers to discuss and evaluate a new study programme. The discussions result in endorsment letters that need to be enclosed in the documentation of a new study programme.

What resources are required for the case?

Consider human resources, financial resources, infrastructure, in-kind resources and any other type required.

Human resources and financial resources are required. It is necessary that the institution takes a holistic approach and systemically improves their students' skills and competences.

What are the enabling factors making this case successful?

Consider institutional support, environmental/social/political factors, etc.

Appropriately prepared staff in order to assure that all processes are professionally monitored and evaluated.
Good time management and adaptation willingness of the decision-makers involved.

Why do you consider this case to be good/best practice?

Please consider that a best practice must (a) have a clearly defined objective to increase the connection with the World of Work, (b) address the target groups of the project, (c) be replicable and sustainable, (d) have clearly demonstrated evidence of effectiveness in increasing the connection with the World of Work

The practice allows for periodic adaptation of the study plans for the changiging needs of the labour market. It also gives the employers a chance to have a direct influence on the way the students are prepared to the job market. It also makes it possible for employers to discuss some aspects of students programme and understand the area of higher education to a greater extent.

Please provide links to further information

Including web-pages, multimedia material, scholarly papers, reports etc.

1. http://pwsztar.edu.pl