Abstract:

Introducing “Web Science and Digital Economy” Master’s subjects in Babeş-Bolyai University’s curriculum represents a complex process. To design such a learning path is a very difficult work because it must take into account the anticipated behavior of students towards this aspect. In this forecasting process we focused to identify the following two hypotheses. The engagement degree of the students in the disciplines they will study will increase with the introduction of web 2.0 tools in their learning materials. Student interest to engage in a form of education based on innovative topics is correlated with understanding the correct career pattern provided by the Master’s studies. Analysis of the two hypotheses will allow us to identify student’s design behavior and their social affective skills, attracted to get involved in new education directions as “Web Science and Digital Economy” Master Program study in order to get success in innovative and transdisciplinary professions. Data collection was conducted in a learning context type event with the participation of students, teachers and elderly people. Scenario research is anchored in sphere of computational social science research, with the theme of improving quality of life and social integration of the elders. So, we created a non-formal learning context (workshop) bringing together students, teachers, and IT professionals with the aim of raising students’ awareness of models of organizational and work culture and practitioners’ view on future employees’ essential competences needed for an efficient and smooth integration on the job market. Then, the impact of the event was surveyed with the aid of a questionnaire applied at the end of the event. The results of data analysis are expected to provide suggestions to align and supplement skills needed by graduates with existing curricular provisions. Additionally, it could indicate directions for further exploration of the role and value of non-cognitive skills for all actors involved and blended learning solutions to improve them.

Keywords:

Contextual learning, student design behavior, graduate employability, non-cognitive skills, social skills.