Understanding viewpoints of employability: an ecological systems theory analysis based on three stakeholder groups

Employability is key for higher education institutions (HEIs) yet research on stakeholder viewpoints of employability is limited. We explored views of employability among learner, teacher and careers and employability practitioner stakeholder groups. Interview transcript data was thematically analysed and organised within an ecological systems theory (EST) framework. Findings underscored the importance of plural definitions, burdens linked to ‘embedding’ employability within HEI curricula, the close links between employability and neoliberalism and ethical issues pertaining to citizenship and social responsibility around embedding employability. Findings underscore the need for HEIs to cultivate plural and ethical discussions of employability involving key stakeholders.