Search results

1 – 10 of over 20000
Article
Publication date: 1 October 1982

RAY THOROGOOD

This overview of current themes in vocational education and training policies and systems is presented in three parts. PART 1 treats the context of vocational education and…

Abstract

This overview of current themes in vocational education and training policies and systems is presented in three parts. PART 1 treats the context of vocational education and training and discusses the major issues influencing national Governments to change their role in vocational education and training. PART 2 discusses the common themes in how central Governments are changing their role in vocational education and training, particularly concerning the devolution of training responsibility to local bodies. The ways in which vocational education and training systems controlled by these local bodies are reacting to this increased responsibility are pursued in detail. PART 3 discusses the growing realization by central Governments that their responsibility for economic development and productivity can be discharged by a closer focus on vocational education and training, not at the delivery level, but at a policy level which includes both policies for vocational preparation of all citizens — particularly youth — and policies which promote new and existing enterprises which show high returns on investment and productivity.

Details

Industrial and Commercial Training, vol. 14 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0019-7858

Book part
Publication date: 12 March 2012

Chijioke J. Evoh

This study presents an innovative approach to Information and communication technology (ICT) skill training and employment generation for out-of-school and disadvantaged youths in…

Abstract

This study presents an innovative approach to Information and communication technology (ICT) skill training and employment generation for out-of-school and disadvantaged youths in Africa. With technical and policy assistance from the World Bank, ICTs can be used to revitalize technical and vocational training to meet skill and employment needs of disadvantaged youths in the region. The deplorable conditions of out-of-school youth and the state of secondary education in Africa underscore the urgency to engage disadvantaged youth in productive economic activities. An ICT-enhanced technical and vocational training program in Africa provides both private and social gains: it provides economic prospects for disadvantaged youth and; it adds to the development of the knowledge economy in Africa. The NairoBits Digital Design School in Kenya is presented as a model of a vocational and training school that uses ICTs to improve skill formation among disadvantaged youths in informal settlements in urban Africa. Meeting the objectives of an ICT-based training and employment generation program for underprivileged youth in Africa require strong regulatory frameworks and contributions from the World Bank. The involvement of the bank, particularly through private sector grants for ICT skill train in Africa will help to revitalize technical and vocational education and training in the region. Above all, the collaboration of government agencies, private businesses, other international development agencies and civil society groups in ICT skill training will help to meaningfully engage African youths in the development of their communities in the emerging knowledge economy.

Details

Education Strategy in the Developing World: Revising the World Bank's Education Policy
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78052-277-7

Article
Publication date: 1 November 1999

Indermit S. Gill, Amit Dar and Fred Fluitman

This article traces the experience of countries reforming their vocational education and training policies and summarizes the lessons learned. It is based on a recent joint World…

2002

Abstract

This article traces the experience of countries reforming their vocational education and training policies and summarizes the lessons learned. It is based on a recent joint World Bank‐ILO study focussing on the obstacles to implementing change in vocational education and training systems in response to changing labor markets and innovative approaches to overcoming these constraints in 19 countries worldwide. It tracks the demand‐side pressures and supply‐side responses and highlights some critical issues, constraints and innovations in the reform of these systems. The main messages from this study are: matching instrument to target group is as important as picking the best delivery mode; the government’s role in facilitating the provision of information about vocational education and training has been relatively neglected; a vigorous private response has refuted claims of the reluctance of private providers to enter the field; and political will, not institutional capacity, is the main obstacle to comprehensive reform.

Details

International Journal of Manpower, vol. 20 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-7720

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 February 2008

Felix Rauner

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that the internationalisation of nearly all spheres of society and the process of European integration will be leading to the…

1628

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that the internationalisation of nearly all spheres of society and the process of European integration will be leading to the development of a European vocational education and training (VET) architecture.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis of the “Copenhagen process” is based on the EU documents on the realisation of a European Qualifications Framework and a credit transfer system.

Findings

The result of the study shows that the strategy adopted by the European Union for the establishment of a European area of vocational education is confronted with a dilemma. The European Qualifications Framework is highly abstract since any reference to real educational programmes and qualifications and any concrete provision for the transition and for the transferability between educational levels and sectors (vocational and higher education, initial and continuing training) was avoided in order to adhere to the anti‐harmonisation clause. The result is an abstract, hierachically structured one‐dimensional qualifications framework that lacks any reference to existing VET systems and that contradicts all scientific insights from VET research and knowledge research.

Practical implications

The implications for VET policy are far‐reaching. A European area of vocational education can be established only on the basis of European open core occupations and an open VET architecture, which ensures that vocational education becomes an integral part of national educational systems. The qualification of employees for the intermediary sector can be realised only as a European project.

Originality/value

There are only a few contributions available that undertake a conceptual analysis and critique of the European Qualifications Framework.

Details

Journal of European Industrial Training, vol. 32 no. 2/3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0590

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 May 1988

Eric Frank

An attempt is made to illustrate the multi‐faceted and multifarious nature of human resource development worldwide, following a definition of it and a description of how it…

1170

Abstract

An attempt is made to illustrate the multi‐faceted and multifarious nature of human resource development worldwide, following a definition of it and a description of how it operates in a number of countries throughout the world, including the US, the EEC countries, India, Singapore, Japan, Australia and New Zealand. The roles and functions of HRD practitioners are examined, and the competences required listed. A short history of the International Federation of Training and Development Organisations is offered and a list of conferences described.

Details

Journal of European Industrial Training, vol. 12 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0590

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 January 2021

Qing Xie

In light of university business English pedagogical innovation, this study reports an empirical study with 66 English major participants.

Abstract

Purpose

In light of university business English pedagogical innovation, this study reports an empirical study with 66 English major participants.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses online survey and participant observation to investigate their practice-oriented motivation and needs, the perceptions of using vocational education and training pedagogy in business English teaching and the learning outcomes in a Chinese university context.

Findings

The study found participants with motivations to learn business and trade knowledge, develop practice-oriented abilities and the preferences of learning flexibly and autonomously. For the perceptions of using vocational education and training pedagogy, simulations of meetings and negotiations were recommended and the job-based competency development model was useful. Workplace simulation was also particularly suggested to bridge the gap between classroom and workplace. For learning outcomes, writing practices and workplace simulation were considered particularly useful. The learning gains were found in international trade correspondence writing. While the intention of continuing learning business English correspondence writing was identified, more opportunities should be created for more practice-oriented activities, such as internship or corporate visit.

Originality/value

Informed by vocational education and training theory, the study has important pedagogical, theoretical and policy implications for business English teaching in both China and worldwide contexts.

Details

Education + Training, vol. 63 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0040-0912

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 May 1991

Eric Frank

This monograph is on developments and trends in vocationaleducation and training in Europe. An overview is given of what is beingplanned in Western Europe. This is illustrated by…

Abstract

This monograph is on developments and trends in vocational education and training in Europe. An overview is given of what is being planned in Western Europe. This is illustrated by a detailed description of the educational systems of a selection of EC and non‐EC countries (Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, Holland, Sweden and Switzerland), followed by discussion of the current provision for vocational education and training within those systems and also in commerce and industry. Also provided are additional information on the work of CEDEFOP and of the European Commission, further reading, useful addresses and a glossary of some European language vocational education terms.

Details

Journal of European Industrial Training, vol. 15 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0590

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 August 1997

Anja Heikkinen

Discusses the problem of “creating” a vocational education and training profession in Europe. In approaching the problem, national and cultural differences of vocational education

1067

Abstract

Discusses the problem of “creating” a vocational education and training profession in Europe. In approaching the problem, national and cultural differences of vocational education and training must be recognized. Typical ways of comparing and analysing them may, however, be limited for reflecting on the topic of vocational education and training (VET) profession. Suggests that an analysis on the “education functions” of different categories of vocational educators and trainers in different cultures is needed. To promote further discussion, gives an example from Finland. In the Finnish case, vocational teachers have become the proponents of vocational education.

Details

Journal of European Industrial Training, vol. 21 no. 6/7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0590

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 1977

NADINE DYER

The highly organised system of vocational education and training in Germany is often held up to Britain as an example worthy of emulation. In this article, Nadine Dyer, an…

Abstract

The highly organised system of vocational education and training in Germany is often held up to Britain as an example worthy of emulation. In this article, Nadine Dyer, an industrial sociologist working for the Training Services Agency, describes the German System, and the way it fits into German society. She points out what could be regarded as some of the shortcomings of this system of vocational education and training and poses the question whether, in view of the fact that Germany and Britain are experiencing similar manpower problems, we in Britain would gain anything by adopting their system. Finally some further questions are asked about the effects and value of the German system.

Details

Industrial and Commercial Training, vol. 9 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0019-7858

Article
Publication date: 1 March 1977

NADINE DYER

France has recently redeveloped its system of vocational education and training, introducing more courses and qualifications for young people, and conferring upon all workers the…

Abstract

France has recently redeveloped its system of vocational education and training, introducing more courses and qualifications for young people, and conferring upon all workers the right to paid leave for training or retraining at any point during their working lives. It is sometimes suggested that the introduction of this system of ‘Education Permanente’ into Britain would bring great benefits; however the system has drawbacks as well as advantages. This article aims to describe the system and then to point out some of its advantages and disadvantages.

Details

Industrial and Commercial Training, vol. 9 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0019-7858

1 – 10 of over 20000