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Research on perceptions of economic inequality focuses on estimations of the distribution of financial resources, such as perceived income gaps or wealth distribution. However, we argue that perceiving inequality is not limited to an economic idea but also includes other dimensions related to people’s daily life. We explored this idea by conducting an online survey (N = 601) in Colombia, where participants responded to an open-ended question regarding how they perceived economic inequality. We performed a content analysis of 1,624 responses to identify relevant topics and used network analysis tools to explore how such topics were interrelated. We found that perceived economic inequality is mainly represented by identifying social classes (e.g., the elites vs. the poor), intergroup relations based on discrimination and social exclusion, public spaces (e.g., beggars on streets, spatial segregation), and some dynamics about the distribution of economic resources and the quality of work (e.g., income inequality, precarious jobs). We discuss how different perceptions of economic inequality may frame how people understand and respond to inequality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article shows the results of an investigation carried out in public university in Cali (Colombia), using about 30 different- careers-students' representations and actions on employability. It was based on a similar study performed in Brazil. A questionnaire was applied and the content analysis technique was used to interpret data. It was found that students' actions are closely connected to modality of employment. At the same time, they investigate about environment and organizational demands. The subjects emphasized the network establishment and work experience before being graduated as fundamental; the learning of a second language and aesthetic aspects such as the personal presentation remain in the background. They related the fact of being employable with capacities, abilities and knowledge allowing a person to accede to a job. Finally, there are differences among careers and network establishment, the execution of practices before graduation, and expanding the field of action by complementary studies, among others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transformations of the working world implies the diminishment of structural employment and consolidation of other forms of work with psycho-sociological implications for employability. The research explores learning strategies of professionals (successes and control) and employers facilitate employability at 5 Colombian cities. In depth interviews were used. Results show that learning strategies are not necessarily consciousness. Successful professionals use Cognitive strategies of elaboration and transference; relational strategies for visibility and promoting knowledge in inter-relation; and meta-cognitive strategies of regulation in this order. Control group professionals use cognitive-elaboration and transference strategies without converting them into behaviors. Employers stressed the use of cognitive strategies of elaboration, metacognitives of regulation, relational visibility and the establishment of relations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]