Balancing education and experience in broadcasting/video production: Employer perceptions regarding recent college graduates.

摘要

The purpose of this study was to compare employer perceptions of the work performance of two groups---recent graduates and experienced peer employees---in the field of broadcasting/video production. Employers are constantly looking for a more effective graduate who would be able to adapt their skills to the professional environment at a more efficient rate in achieving success in job placement and execution.; The study utilized 50 media professionals with at least five years of experience in communications/journalism at the professional level in the Midwest region of the US. Eleven different states are represented in the study. Assessment surveys were conducted to establish the perceived and actual skill levels of graduates and experienced employees, stereotypes associated with graduate degrees, the possible need for changes in educational practice, and subsequent effects on hiring practices.; The survey was administered by phone. The means and standard deviations of each dependent variable based on demographic variables were compared using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).; Results of the study showed a continued de-emphasis on the value of college education. Recent graduates were seen as lacking in all areas compared to their experienced counterparts. Over half of the employers surveyed stated they would rather work with someone with years of experience rather than years of education. Graduates with a masters or doctoral degree were seen as money-hungry and controlling. Most respondents (90%) believed faculty members should be experienced, but only a small percentage (approximately 12%) felt faculty members should have an earned doctoral degree. Universities were thought to spend too much time on theory and not enough time on practical issues, more in touch with businesses and their needs for future employees.