Traditionally, graduate tracking has focused on whether or not VET graduates find employment after their studies. The FOLLOW APP project goes one step ahead in calling for an increasingly comprehensive approach to tracking: not only employment itself but also long-term career development and utilization of skills.
Beyond the first job: why longitudinal tracking matters
Employment is but one metric; it does not describe the success of a graduate. This implies a vision fostered by FOLLOW APP: the long-term monitoring of graduates, also in terms of career development, skill use, and job satisfaction. This provides further insight for VET providers and employers concerning exactly how their programs prepare apprentices for long-term success in the labor market.
Using data to improve VET Programs
It is also well-known that longitudinal tracking of graduates provides valuable data, which could help to refine programs offered by providers. In fact, the data that is collected on skills utilization and career progression provides insight into what in the curriculum requires updating to better align with evolving demand for skills. FOLLOW APP encourages VET institutions to adopt a data-driven approach and incrementally target the quality of programs.
Supporting lifelong learning and professional development
Graduate tracking also allows the opening of doors for lifelong learning opportunities. Using tracking methods will disclose chances of additional training or upskilling using the FOLLOW APP. Through contact with the graduate while working over the course of their careers, VET can offer complementary programs that enhance ongoing professional development and career growth.
Building stronger links between graduates and employers
For employers, long-term graduate tracking provides an insight into the performance of their apprentices after training completion. That helps to evaluate how much money a company has invested in apprenticeship programs, as it will make ground for informed decisions on the future collaboration with a VET institution. Shortly said, by doing this, both parties will contribute to more effective partnerships, with better outcomes for graduates and employers alike.
