The use of research projects by graduates at their workplace

Abstract

For progress to be inevitable, one factor which perpetually needs to be present is research. This indisputably applies to the business world and universities are trying to pave a more useful way for its students by providing them with research experience and skills. A final year research project is a requirement for students to graduate, however, this should not simply be seen as a way for the students to conclude the course but as a kick-start to their career. This study investigated the number of graduates who are putting the research they conducted at the University of Malta into practice at their workplace. The graduates' point-of-view on this matter was targeted to understand whether the skills they developed at university match the industrial employer's expectations. The dual impact of research - on graduates and on the community - found in previous literature was studied to understand if companies, the government and the community in general are gaining advantage of such vital research. Results show the exigency and pivotal importance of strengthening the relationship between universities and companies which employ the graduates to increase the percentage of graduates making use of their research. It was discovered that its use depends on the graduates' line of work since some graduates employed in specific sectors use research more than others. This research concludes that universities need to put more effort and a direct implementation to business and to the actual type of jobs the graduates will be doing in a few months time to provide them with an adaptable skills set resulting in all the industries eventually benefiting from intelligent, experienced and well-rounded graduates.