Skill Mismatch Research: Skill Dimensions in Vocational Education and Training

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to contribute to the understanding of skill mismatches, by providing a comprehensive review of the various concepts, dynamic processes, and consequences as well as emerging trends in skill mismatch research. A skill can be understood as either the nature of the skill in itself (work ability or competence) or the individual worker or workforce. Thus, a skill mismatch in terms of the nature of skills is the qualitative discrepancy between what is possessed by an individual and what is needed, whereas a mismatch in terms of the workforce is the quantitative discrepancy between supply and demand of workers. Past researchers have proposed a variety of skill mismatch types according to whether the skills are viewed qualitatively or quantitatively and to the scope in which the mismatch phenomenon covers. The research trends surrounding the concept of skill mismatch have developed greatly since its beginnings when only indirect proxies were used. Now, various research topics on skill mismatch are possible as there is more development in data of skill mismatches.