Self-perceived employability attributes of adult learners within an open distance learning environment

Abstract

This study examined the employability self-perceptions of South African open distance learning (ODL) higher education students. Although studies have been conducted within an ODL environment on graduates’ employability, rising unemployment together with a lack of industry-specific skills requires more investigation into the concept of employability. It is therefore envisaged that this study will provide valuable information in this regard and add to the current body of knowledge on employability. The employability attributes scale (EAS) was administered to a target population of N = 1 706 ODL students (second to fourth year) in the economic and management sciences field. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design approach was used. The data were analysed to determine students’ demographic effects on self-perceived employability. Results suggest that white and younger students perceive themselves as more employable than other ethnic groups by age groupings. Results may reflect historical opportunity structure effects on employability in a modern South African economy. The findings provide valuable information that organisations can use for career development support and counselling practices in the contemporary world of work. They further provide important insights informing human resource practices aimed at addressing the career needs of different age and race groups. The implications of this study will be helpful in guiding both industry and academia in incorporating and enhancing these skills among professionals.