For a wide variety of well-documented reasons -
often related to globalization, demographics and technological change - knowledge and skills necessary to work and keep a job in today's economy and labour market need to be updated and maintained throughout life. This is as much a challenge for individuals as it is for employers. Relevant research questions to explore include:
What do educational institutions and employers need to do to prepare for the learning challenges associated with changes in the labour market such as:
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Workforce ageing [fewer young people entering the workforce with up-to-date knowledge and skills; a larger proportion of the workforce above the age of 40];
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Greater diversity of the workforce [changing immigration patterns; greater language and cultural barriers]; and
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Technological and organizational changes [importance of technological developments in all activities affecting both work organization and human resource management]?
How well do our training programs serve the need for adult skill development, especially for those with lower levels of formal education?
Possible research in this area is currently under examination. Please watch our site for future postings.
