Between two worlds: linking education and employment

This chapter looks at different systems of education and training around the world. It discusses a curious paradox. Although the world of work is deeply dependent on the skills that arise from learning, employers and other stakeholders from the world of work are often remarkably uninvolved in education in general, and even in vocational education and training systems. The chapter also looks at the origins of this unfortunate paradox, why it matters, and how it might be resolved. The challenges faced by vocational education are also a problem, in some ways an even bigger problem, for...  [+] Show more

This chapter looks at different systems of education and training around the world. It discusses a curious paradox. Although the world of work is deeply dependent on the skills that arise from learning, employers and other stakeholders from the world of work are often remarkably uninvolved in education in general, and even in vocational education and training systems. The chapter also looks at the origins of this unfortunate paradox, why it matters, and how it might be resolved. The challenges faced by vocational education are also a problem, in some ways an even bigger problem, for academic education. Education and training systems, unfortunately, are often happier in silos. Vocational programmes and qualifications too often ignore the study and wider skills that can prepare students for further learning. Labour market regulation has a big potential impact on the willingness of employers to engage with the education system, including the vocational training system.

Abstract from publisher's website.

The volume from which this chapter is taken is available in VOCEDplus at TD/TNC 133.717.