Level of Preparedness of Undergraduates for School – Workplace Transition and Unemployment issues in an Era of Technology Advancement.

Abstract

Organizations recruiting new workforce lay emphasis on knowledge or high level of competency in information and communication technology by new entrants. This study was carried out to investigate the level of preparedness of undergraduate students for school–workplace transition and unemployment issues in an era of technology advancement. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study with 140 randomly selected participants in their final year undergraduate class as sample for the study. Findings from analyses of data revealed a significant difference in the level of preparedness of undergraduate students for school-workplace transition in an era of technology advancement. Gender and age however did not significantly affect the level of preparedness of the students. Recommendations include; the importance of early exposure of undergraduates to positive use of various technology tools that are being developed on a daily basis. Skills and conducts that might not be taught in the lecture rooms but are important for undergraduates to imbibe are also highlighted (punctuality and regularity to work, good time management, good human relations, professionalism, dressing, language, ethical issues, respect for elders and constituted authority, comportment, calmness and cheerful disposition). These are all relevant in the workplace.