An action research enquiry of third-level student employability competences through the implementation of a business strategy software simulation

This action research study investigates if using a business strategy software simulation in the teaching of an undergraduate strategic management module enhances business students' employability competences. Through a preparatory action research cycle, key employability competences are identified, and a suitable software simulation is selected following a structured selection process. In addition, through a process of programmatic review applying the concepts of both constructive alignment and assessment as learning, a module is created to integrate the simulation software.
In two further implementation cycles of action research, data was gathered through structured researcher observation, student pre- and post-surveys and thematic analysis of student journals (second implementation cycle). Analysis of the data gathered identifies the improvement of students' employability competences through the use of strategy simulation software. Further discussion of findings identifies next steps and areas for further research.
The employability of third-level graduates is much discussed and researched. The key stakeholders in this discussion are the student, the future employers and third-level institutions. Ensuring consistency of the various stakeholders’ expectations regarding the necessary competences and the best means of developing them is challenging. Graduate recruitment campaigns often expect more than discipline-specific technical knowledge, other more generic skills or soft skills known as employability competences are listed on graduate job requirements. This research identifies twelve key student employability competences.
Students and third-level institutions are aware of the importance of these competences in securing first positions post-graduation and subsequent career development. In seeking to develop these employability competences third-level institutions have two approaches, one option is to create specific modules for this purpose. A more common solution is to build these competences into modules across degree programmes. This research follows this second approach and investigates if implementing a business strategy software simulation in a strategic management module helps enhance student employability competences.