Role of technical and vocational education in the Swedish education system

This study, arises from a UNESCO programme aimed at enhancing the role and status of technical and vocational education within national education systems. The study reports on a reform process initiated in 1992 in Sweden, the Upper Secondary School Reform aimed at decentralising educational authority and integrating technical and vocational streams into the broader general education structure. The reform also aimed to improve participation by under-represented groups and to encourage an emphasis on entrepreneurial studies and small business. The major concept informing the reforms was that of lifelong learning. The paper offers a detailed analysis of the current situation and of the impact of the reforms in target areas such as adult education, co-operation between schools and industry, and the participation of special social groups. Detailed overviews of various subjects and courses available in the vocational system are included as an appendix.

This study, arises from a UNESCO programme aimed at enhancing the role and status of technical and vocational education within national education systems. The study reports on a reform process initiated in 1992 in Sweden, the Upper Secondary School Reform aimed at decentralising educational authority and integrating technical and vocational streams into the broader general education structure. The reform also aimed to improve participation by under-represented groups and to encourage an emphasis on entrepreneurial studies and small business. The major concept informing the reforms was ...  [+] Show more