Fostering Graduate Employability: Evaluating the Impact of the Link and Match Curriculum on Skill Development through a Multifaceted Learning Approach

Abstract

In the era of rapid technological advancement and Industry 4.0, higher education institutions face increasing challenges in preparing graduates with competencies that meet evolving industry demands. Despite continuous curriculum reforms, a considerable gap still exists between the skills acquired in academia and those required in professional settings. To address this issue, the present study investigates the effectiveness of the Link and Match curriculum in cultivating essential skill sets for student success in the modern workforce. This research is grounded in previous empirical and theoretical studies on employability and higher education curriculum reform. The research explores the influence of a multifaceted learning approach, encompassing learning agility, learning performance, ubiquitous learning, collaborative learning methods, digital learning environment, and industry partnerships, on student skill development. A sample of 98 students participating in programs implementing the Link and Match curriculum provided data through an online questionnaire. Employing a quantitative methodology, the study utilizes both descriptive statistics and Structural Equation Modeling to analyze the relationships between the identified variables. The findings demonstrate a statistically significant positive impact of the Link and Match curriculum on student skill enhancement. In particular, the research highlights the crucial contributions of industry partnerships and a robust digital learning environment in fostering practical skills and adaptability. These results underscore the importance of experiential learning and technology integration in preparing graduates for the demands of the contemporary workplace.