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 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 are needed.
It is necessary that the institution takes a holistic approach and systemically encourages the employers to improve the curricula. Also the institution needs to have an approach empowering emploers to take initiative and suggest possible improvements in equipment of laboratories to keep up the highest standards.

What are the enabling factors making this case successful?

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

Institutional support is needed.
The holistic approach of the institution (Careers Office) in order to assure that all processes are professionally monitored and evaluated by the relevant staff.
Good preparation of the staff that have to be convinced in the benefit of such activity.
Good time management and adaptation willingness of the employers 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

It is good practice as it ensures that the newly created study programmes are well suited to the labour market. It also gives the employers a say in how their future prospective empolees are prepared to the profession. For the community it is an activity that strengthens the various links existing between decisionmakers, industry and higher education.

Please provide links to further information

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

1. http://pwsztar.edu.pl