Communication as a way to develop creativity in higher education: Analysis through external internships in business management studies

Abstract

Introduction: The main objective of this study is to analyze employers' perceptions and students' self-perceptions regarding two of the key competencies developed in external internships: creativity and communication skills. It also aims to observe the existence of differences in students' self-perceptions in both competencies according to their gender. Methodology: The study population is made up of employers and students participating in the internships for the Degree in Business Administration and Management at the Ourense Campus (University of Vigo). A cross-sectional observational approach using a descriptive correlational design was used to analyze 638 internship reports. Results: Both employers and students agree that there is a positive and significant link between the two skills. On the other hand, creativity is not so highly rated, being perceived as lower by the students. No differences were observed in the competencies rated by students or employers according to students' gender. However, regarding the internship duration, the students perceive that it influences the acquisition of competencies. Discussion y conclusions: External internships are an ideal complement to university education for the development of competencies. The work environment is key to the development of creativity and innovation, so transferring the implementation of communication skills to a deliberately creative context such as business can contribute to improving students' skills.