Vocational education and training: typologies, labour market returns, challenges and developments

Abstract

Vocational education and training (VET) is regarded as the least homogeneous among educational fields. This chapter offers a thorough overview of recent sociological research on VET at the upper secondary level. Recognizing the dynamic and diverse nature of VET, the chapter highlights the importance of distinct national histories, institutions and trajectories that shape VET systems. Vocational education and training play a pivotal role in a country's adaptability to evolving labour market conditions, addressing both employer and nation-state skill needs, and providing a safety net against unemployment. As an alternative educational path, VET equips individuals with practical skills and facilitates a smooth transition into the workforce. The chapter also discusses the social functions and typologies of VET systems, delves into the aspects related to the political economy of VET, examines labour market integration, and explores both the short- and long-term outcomes of VET, along with future challenges in the field. © Ellu Saar and Péter Róbert 2025.

Keywords

Author Keywords

vocational education and training Future challenges in VET Short-term and long-term outcomes Social functions of VET Typologies of VET systems

Index Keywords

Employment Personnel training Apprentices Commerce Vocational education and training Education and training systems Future challenges Industrial relations Future challenge in vocational education and training Long-term outcome Short-term and long-term outcome Social function Social function of vocational education and training Typology of vocational education and training system

Author Affiliations

Institute of International Social Studies, Estonia, School of Governance, Tallinn University, Tallinn, Harjumaa, Estonia

Funding & Acknowledgements

No funding information

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Vocational education and training: typologies, labour market returns, challenges and developments

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