Learning environment and graduates' transition period

This study investigated the model of learning environment and graduates' transition period from higher education to employment. The responses to a questionnaire of 13,532 graduates from eight countries were analyzed using a structural equation modeling approach. The tested model indicates a close fit based on Chi-square = 233.34, df = 10, p < 0.001; Chi-square / df = 23.33; CFI = 0.984; RMSEA = 0.042. The results showed that learning environment, as composite of structure of courses, institutional support, infrastructure, student activity, and research, affects graduates competencies. Graduates' competencies were shown to have a significant relationship with graduates' transition period in term of job search duration. The higher graduates' competencies are; the shorter the transition period will be. In addition, transition period is also influenced by study abroad experience. Graduates with experience abroad reported to have a shorter period of job search.