Investigating Intermediate Skills: Part of an LSDA Collection. A Basis for Skills.

N

59

Department for Education and Skills, London (England).
Learning and Skills Council, Coventry (England).

Adult Learning; Communication Skills; Definitions; Education Work Relationship; Educational Needs; Employer Attitudes; Employment Level; Employment Potential; Employment Qualifications; Entry Workers; Foreign Countries; Information Technology; Interpersonal Competence; Job Skills; Problem Solving; Student Certification; Teamwork; Training; Vocational Adjustment; Vocational Education

France; Germany; United Kingdom

978-1-85338-878-1

The question of whether the term "intermediate skills" has a distinctive meaning across business and industry in the United Kingdom and in its major competitors was examined. The study focused on the following sectors: housing construction; broadcasting; the care sector; the exercise, health, and fitness sector; and engineering (high tech as well as fabrication and welding). Structured interviews were conducted with members of the following groups: employers; education and training providers; sector skills council members; members of professional associations; and members of the Centres of Vocational Excellence network. The definition of intermediate skills was not uniform across business and industry. However, a mix of new and traditional skills appeared to be needed by people in jobs located between operative and professional levels. Intermediate skills appeared related to a grouping of skills, knowledge, and attributes required to perform satisfactorily in intermediate-level jobs that must be defined by individual employment sectors. The blanket use of terms such as "intermediate skills" appeared to be of limited value in the formulation of education and training policy. Greater clarity in what constitutes a "qualification" and what employers can expect in terms of new recruits' skills, knowledge, and experience and what they themselves need to provide in terms of induction and further specific training appeared warranted. (The interview responses and series introduction are appended. Forty-five endnotes are included.) (MN)

2004

ED478448