ConVET - Connectivity in Vocational Education and Training. Lifelong Learning Programme (LLP), Leonardo da Vinci, Partnership project
The main aim of this partnership is to develop a greater understanding of the challenges and potential of connectivity, which is defined here as the coordination of training content between VET schools and host companies in VET programmes (VET sector).
While connectivity has long been an important concern in VET programmes in Switzerland, the concept remains a major focus in pedagogical and political debates, particularly in response to a labour market that continuously demands greater flexibility and willingness to learn.
The present partnership brings together various organisations that play different roles within the education system as a whole and within the VET sector in particular. These include VET schools, professional institutions involved in the provision of training, research institutes and institutions that are active in the training of VET teachers and VET trainers. Partners also come from various countries (Austria, Finland, Germany, Italy, Switzerland) and are interested in discussing topics and exchanging views.
Specifically, the project entails the following:
- Mapping the various approaches used to regulate and achieve connectivity within VET programmes and to describe the main impact that these approaches have had on how training content is imparted and assimilated in VET programmes;
- Identifying courses of action that may be taken to encourage efficient connectivity;
- Promoting dialogue between key actors within the VET sector on connectivity challenges and strategies.
The objectives described above will be reached through a combination of analysis, exchange and dialogue among the various partners, made possible through both mobility and empirical research. Empirical research will include a systematic comparative analysis of documents (curricula, regulations, ordinances, etc.) used in 2 or 3 specific VET programmes in the following occupational fields: a) industry-craftsmanship; b) commerce; c) tourism. A questionnaire will also be distributed to a selected group of key actors in each country (VET teachers, VET trainers, etc.) to ascertain the difference between what is officially established and what is actually implemented in terms of connectivity.
Discussion at the international level will be focussed on the implications that research findings will have on VET policymaking, the development of curricula as well as the regulation of training both at VET schools and host companies. The implications at micro level relate to possible local action that may be taken to support connectivity.