UNEVOC Connect

Skills foresight systematically analyses future skill supply and demand, using participatory methodologies to identify how political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental factors (PESTLE) interact and change the nature of work and skills demand. It combines qualitative and quantitative approaches (e.g. Delphi, scenarios, workshops); the wide range of stakeholders typically involved gives it a participatory character and a networking dimension. Skills foresight is a forward-looking methodology, which allows stakeholders to explore alternative ways to reach a desirable future and to reflect on the impact of existing and changing circumstances (e.g. disruption) and other factors on different scenarios. In skills foresights on VET and skills, VET institutions typically team up with sectoral or regional stakeholders, authorities, social partners and experts.

Systematic analysis of future skill supply and demand, using participatory methodologies to identify how political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental factors (PESTLE analysis) change the nature of work and the demand for related skills.

Comment

- Skills foresight is used to provide early warning of emerging issues, understand challenges and opportunities, clarify vision and goals, and check the appropriateness and ‘robustness’ of strategies;

- Skills foresight is distinct from skills forecast and other related skill needs assessment and anticipation tools in several respects:

• it has a participatory and networking dimension involving a wide range of stakeholders
• it explores long-term perspectives through holistic analysis that goes beyond typical forecasting. Foresight combines qualitative and quantitative approaches (e.g. Delphi, scenarios, workshops) and aims to provides a link between reflection and action.