This study investigates the alignment between undergraduate programs in Weifang City and the requirements of the industry,along with key competencies valued by employers.Utilizing a quantitative descriptive research d...This study investigates the alignment between undergraduate programs in Weifang City and the requirements of the industry,along with key competencies valued by employers.Utilizing a quantitative descriptive research design,data was collected from 370 participants,including faculty members,industry professionals,administrative staff,employers,students,and alumni.The findings reveal a positive perception of current undergraduate programs,highlighting their relevance,practical skills development,engagement of faculty with the industry,and fruitful collaborations with various sectors.Employers exhibited moderate consideration for technical proficiency,soft skills,industry-relevant experience,and professional attitude when hiring graduates.Higher education institutions displayed moderate efforts in enhancing industry-based congruence,particularly in curriculum adaptation,practical learning opportunities,and career services.Various factors,including industry input,labor market analysis,collaboration with professional associations,and economic strategies,were found to moderately influence the alignment between education and industry needs.Despite the positive aspects,the study identified gaps and challenges,such as curriculum disparities and limited collaboration,emphasizing the need for strategic interventions.Policy recommendations were proposed to enhance alignment,including fostering strong university-industry collaborations,mandating internships,faculty development,and promoting student-industry awareness.In conclusion,this study provides valuable insights for educational institutions,industry partners,policymakers,students,and future researchers,aiming to improve the congruence between undergraduate education and industry requirements in Weifang City and beyond.展开更多
文摘This study investigates the alignment between undergraduate programs in Weifang City and the requirements of the industry,along with key competencies valued by employers.Utilizing a quantitative descriptive research design,data was collected from 370 participants,including faculty members,industry professionals,administrative staff,employers,students,and alumni.The findings reveal a positive perception of current undergraduate programs,highlighting their relevance,practical skills development,engagement of faculty with the industry,and fruitful collaborations with various sectors.Employers exhibited moderate consideration for technical proficiency,soft skills,industry-relevant experience,and professional attitude when hiring graduates.Higher education institutions displayed moderate efforts in enhancing industry-based congruence,particularly in curriculum adaptation,practical learning opportunities,and career services.Various factors,including industry input,labor market analysis,collaboration with professional associations,and economic strategies,were found to moderately influence the alignment between education and industry needs.Despite the positive aspects,the study identified gaps and challenges,such as curriculum disparities and limited collaboration,emphasizing the need for strategic interventions.Policy recommendations were proposed to enhance alignment,including fostering strong university-industry collaborations,mandating internships,faculty development,and promoting student-industry awareness.In conclusion,this study provides valuable insights for educational institutions,industry partners,policymakers,students,and future researchers,aiming to improve the congruence between undergraduate education and industry requirements in Weifang City and beyond.