Analysis of VET in Ukraine since the Soviet era
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore how vocational education and training (VET) in Ukraine has changed since the Soviet era; and to determine its structure, successes, and challenges.
Design/methodology/approach
The author conducted interviews and tours at 15 vocational schools in seven cities in Ukraine.
Findings
Ukraine is struggling to establish itself as an independent, modern country; education includes elements from the Soviet era and contemporary European practices; the VET system is taking on the state-regulated bureaucratic model; it has mixed success mainly due to economic development; social support for secondary students is very strong.
Research limitations/implications
Since Ukraine will eventually be a key player in international relations, it is important for scholars to understand how the VET system is developing.
Originality/value
This study provides an in-depth view of VET in this once closed country which is now susceptible to influence from Russia and Europe.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This paper is the result of a project funded by the Faculty Research and Creative Activities Award of Western Michigan University which supported the travel related to the research.
Citation
Zinser, R. (2015), "Analysis of VET in Ukraine since the Soviet era", Education + Training, Vol. 57 No. 6, pp. 685-700. https://doi.org/10.1108/ET-09-2014-0114
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited