Leading figures in higher education across Europe agree that British students studying non-language degree programmes in the UK need more encouragement to undertake periods of work or study abroad, which they say is directly linked to improved employability prospects.
Speakers at the Benefits of Brussels conference, panellists agreed that British students – unlike their French, German and other European counterparts – are not made to “feel the fear” and lack the motivation (or “self-efficacy”) needed to study abroad.
Adam Tyson, Head of Unit, Higher Education, Modernisation Strategy and Erasmus, European Commission said academic teaching staff in the UK fail to set an example of the benefits of study abroad, and likewise should consider spending periods teaching abroad.
The unemployment rate for Erasmus alumni was 23% lower than for non-mobile students
“What we see with Erasmus is nearly 60% of the students are social sciences, humanities students and the natural scientists just don’t move,” he commented, “not because of the intensity of their programme, but because the staff are not giving them the right signals. The staff are also telling them ‘you cannot miss this'”.
Paul Blackmore, Head of Employability and Graduate Development, University of Exeter agreed and said there is a deficit of graduates with intercultural competence. “There’s obviously a clear link between mobility and career prospects.”
“I think what is absolutely key is preparation before students go abroad and post-experience reflection,” said Blackmore.
Blackmore said that employers increasingly don’t specifically seek language-speaking graduates but candidates with qualities that learning a language abroad entails; such as communication skills, initiative and flexibility.
Referring to the recently published Erasmus Impact Study, Blackmore pointed out that a minimum of one in three students who undertook Erasmus work placements were offered permanent jobs by their placement employer.
He also highlighted the long-term benefits of study and work abroad. According to the study, the unemployment rate for Erasmus alumni was 23% lower than for non-mobile students. Mobile students were also 44% more likely to hold managerial positions ten years after graduation.
The conference was organised by the UK Higher Education International Unit with DAAD and Institut Français.
