In 2013 and 2017, Ashbrook was commissioned to look at perceptions of the Technology & Engineering Sector in Scotland. The 2017 study, in particular, sought to identify how perceptions of the sector, and any issues surrounding them, had changed through time.
We deployed a range of methodological tools, including telephone depth interviews, structured telephone interviews, structured face-to-face interviews and online surveys. Information was gathered from a wide range of audiences, including people working in and representing the sector, education practitioners and providers, the public sector, an international audience, parents of learners and learners themselves. This primary research was supported by desk research to ensure that the aims and objectives were fully met.
Key conclusions and recommendations from the 2017 study are helping both Skills Development Scotland and Scottish Enterprise ensure that they continue to promote and support positive perceptions of the sector. In particular, they will inform the development of any future actions and processes within both agencies and in conjunction with industry bodies. Such work significantly supports and enhances all efforts towards maintaining and growing the status of engineering in Scotland.
Ashbrook has been carrying out Domestic Tracking Research on behalf of Scottish Enterprise since 2009. We explore the experiences, expectations and needs a range of audiences in Scotland, particularly companies and organisations who work with Scottish Enterprise, or who have the potential to work with them.
Ashbrook has been conducting a comprehensive programme of Stakeholder Tracking Research on behalf of SQA since 2001. We engage with professional audiences (FE colleges, secondary schools, employers and training providers) and public audiences (potential candidates and parents of potential candidates).
“Ashbrook Research and Consultancy Limited provided a first class consultancy service for us on a refreshed Perception Study. Communication was excellent – before, during and after the project. All activity was logged systematically and reports created were professional and on time. Throughout the process Ashbrook staff were professional, helpful and friendly and I would look forward to working with the company again.”
