Acquisition of youth skills in training and employer attitudes to training in higher education in United Arab Emirates

Abstract

UAE has undergone major educational reform. This study assessed the impact of the educational reforms on youth career aspirations, achievement, motivation, and well-being and the key skills needed for the future. It included a qualitative study to assess attitudes and perceptions of stakeholders toward the changes and their impact on the achievement motivation and career aspirations of young people in the UAE in addition to identifying key skills for the future, and a quantitative study of current university students that assessed the same issues and their mental health. Qualitative data were collected using 30–60-minute semi-structured interviews via Zoom and phone from 23 stakeholders who were: a) heads of universities, b) head of well-being in the UAE government, c) parents, d) graduates, e) teachers, f)curriculum developer, g) psychologist, h) expert in educations, j) expert in well-being, k) expert in digitalisation, and l) senior members from the government. Themes emerging from the analysis of transcripts showed that the vision and strategy of education reform are clear, yet there is a need for more alignment and engagement, while for the curricula, the variety, innovation, and teaching methods require further consideration. Concerning data and technology, there is a need to adopt new learning methods that boost digital skills for students. Quantitative data came from on-line survey using a novel Skills and Knowledge questionnaire and the GHQ12 scale (340 participants|), and the Achievement Motivation scale and the Career Aspirations scale (281 participants). The novel scale showed good reliability and validity. Overall, the students seemed well motivated and satisfied with their education and preparation for employment, but to have a high level of mental health issues.

The quantitative findings indicated that young people in UAE have good level of motivation and are aspired to ward their career, and it was found that majority of them are aware of their career options and have good level of mental health. Majority of the young people also indicated that they are satisfied with the existing academic programmes they are attending. Most of the young people are motivated toward a leadership position and managerial levels and driven by achieving excellence in their performance with aiming to continue professional development and education. Young people showed that they are intrinsically and extrinsically motivated toward their education and career.

Date of Award	Oct 2023
Original language	English
Supervisor	Melanie Giles (Supervisor) & Julian Leslie (Supervisor)